Bolivia launches early-morning crackdown on roadblocks outside La Paz | Protests News
Military and Police Clash with Protesters in Bolivia’s Capital Amid Economic Crisis
LA PAZ, Bolivia — Military and law enforcement officials engaged with demonstrators Saturday as part of an operation to clear roadblocks established during nationwide antigovernment protests.
In the early hours of Saturday, approximately 3,500 soldiers and police were deployed, resulting in 57 arrests, according to the citizens’ rights ombudsman’s office.
The protests, organized by miners, schoolteachers, Indigenous groups, and various unions, seek to express dissatisfaction with the government led by center-right President Rodrigo Paz.
Bolivia is currently experiencing one of the most severe economic crises in decades. The country’s foreign currency reserves have significantly declined, compounded by a decrease in exports, particularly natural gas. Once a major energy exporter benefiting from vast natural gas reserves discovered in the late 20th century, Bolivia has faced challenges since 2022 due to mismanagement and dwindling supplies, leading to fuel imports and exacerbating the economic situation.
As a result, many regions in Bolivia are facing long lines for fuel and shortages of essential goods. President Paz, elected in October, initially campaigned on promises to alleviate economic difficulties. However, his recent decision to end a long-standing fuel subsidy and push for the privatization of state-owned companies has ignited public outrage.
Protests earlier this month resulted in the repeal of Law 1720, a land reform measure criticized for potentially dispossessing small-scale farmers in favor of larger landowners. The government estimates that around 22 roadblocks have been established throughout the country in recent weeks, with some protesters calling for Paz’s resignation. His election marked the end of nearly two decades of rule by the Movement for Socialism (MAS).
The demonstrations have disrupted supplies to cities like La Paz, leading to rising food prices and reports of three deaths attributed to individuals being unable to reach hospitals.
In response to the unrest, presidential spokesperson Jose Luis Galvez stated that Saturday’s crackdown aimed to establish a “humanitarian corridor” to facilitate the flow of supplies to hospitals in La Paz.
Earlier this week, Paz expressed gratitude to Argentine President Javier Milei for providing humanitarian assistance to Bolivia. In a social media post, Paz noted that this act of solidarity “not only strengthens the historic bonds of brotherhood between our nations but also represents vital relief for our communities in times of great need.”
In turn, Milei condemned the protesters, characterizing them as anti-democratic and reaffirming Argentina’s support for Bolivia’s elected authorities. “Argentina stands with the Bolivian people and supports their democratically elected authorities against those who seek to destabilize the country and obstruct the path toward freedom and progress,” Milei stated.
