La Paz, Bolivia — Protesters clashed violently with police in Bolivia’s capital as weeks-long demonstrations over a deepening cost-of-living crisis escalated, with demonstrators calling for the removal of President Rodrigo Paz just six months after he took office.
The streets of La Paz were filled with angry crowds, roadblocks, barricades, tear gas, and small-scale explosions. Protesters attempted to push through security barricades protecting government buildings, prompting security forces to fire tear gas canisters to push them back. Demonstrators were seen kicking the canisters away as thick smoke filled the city skyline.
The protests, led by farmers, miners, teachers, and others, were triggered by the government’s decision to end fuel subsidies. Bolivian miners are demanding greater access to fuel and explosives, revisions to their contracts, and the implementation of new mining regulations.
One protester voiced the frustration felt by many indigenous participants: “President Paz should govern, not pit us against one another as brothers. Our brothers are here. Even my son is back there facing off against me. That is not what we indigenous peoples want. That is why we are telling our brother, the president, we have given you power, but you have not been able to govern.”
Bolivia’s public prosecutor has issued an arrest warrant for Mario Argolo, leader of the country’s largest union, accusing him of terrorism and inciting crime. The warrant was issued based on police and intelligence reports and a complaint filed by the Ministry of Government, allowing police to execute the arrest at the appropriate time.
Former President Evo Morales has publicly backed the protesters, with his supporters arriving in La Paz after marching for seven days. The current government has stated that political operators are seeking to bring Morales back into power.
Tensions continue to rise as inflation and economic pressures mount, with demonstrators urging urgent government action to address the crisis.