Bolivia’s legislature passes law allowing use of troops against protesters | Protests News
Bolivia Grants President Military Authority to Clear Protest Roadblocks
Published June 7, 2026
Bolivia’s legislature has enacted a law empowering President Rodrigo Paz to deploy military forces to dismantle roadblocks established by anti-government protesters. The legislation passed in the Chamber of Deputies on Sunday after an overnight debate and previously received Senate approval. President Paz is expected to sign it into law shortly.
Roberto Castro, President of the Chamber of Deputies, confirmed the passage of the bill, stating, “This law is hereby passed.”
In recent weeks, protesters have erected approximately 100 roadblocks across the country, severely disrupting the flow of food and medicine. The military has primarily assisted anti-riot police but has not been granted direct authority to engage protesters until now.
On Saturday, a clash occurred in San Julian, where riot police, supported by military vehicles, deployed tear gas in an attempt to clear a roadblock. Protesters responded by throwing stones and burning tires.
The new legislation allows military personnel to use force against protesters and grants them a “presumption of legality” in conflict situations. This means their actions will be considered lawful unless proven otherwise. This law follows the recent repeal of a 2020 statute that limited military involvement in handling protests.
The ongoing demonstrations are largely driven by various groups, including farmers, miners, and transportation unions, amid rising inflation and low wages. Additionally, Paz’s decision to eliminate fuel subsidies has fueled discontent.
Elected last year, President Paz is positioning himself as a pro-business leader amid an economic crisis, seeking to stabilize the country’s financial situation. His administration has received strong backing from the United States. In a statement, supporters of the U.S. government expressed solidarity with Paz’s efforts, denouncing the roadblocks as attempts to hinder essential supplies to the Bolivian populace.
