Bolivia Unrest Intensifies as Protests and Roadblocks Paralyse Country

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La Paz : Bolivia is facing growing unrest as weeks of protests and roadblocks have disrupted transport, caused shortages of essential goods and fuel, and driven up prices across the country.

Clashes between protesters and security forces have left several police officers and civilians injured. Authorities said riot police attempting to clear roadblocks were met with resistance, including gunfire, while demonstrators threw stones and burned tyres.

The protests have brought large parts of the country to a standstill, with many demonstrators demanding that President Rodrigo Paz's government address Bolivia's deepening economic crisis. Some groups have also called for the president's resignation.

The government has accused supporters of former president Evo Morales of helping fuel the unrest in an effort to destabilise Bolivia's first conservative administration in two decades. Paz has gone further, blaming what he called “narcoterrorists” for the violence and warning that authorities would take action against those responsible.

In a move that could strengthen the government's response, lawmakers approved legislation allowing the declaration of a state of emergency. The measure would permit the deployment of the military to help restore order and remove roadblocks.

Meanwhile, hundreds of residents marched through the capital, La Paz, calling for an end to the disruptions and expressing concern over worsening food shortages and economic hardship.

Paz, who took office in November promising to revive the economy, has faced mounting criticism over unpopular reforms and the government's handling of social and economic challenges.

Morales, who remains in hiding while facing legal allegations, has been accused by the government of encouraging the protests, a claim his supporters reject.

The latest unrest comes as the United States backed Shield of the Americas alliance, an anti-cartel coalition that includes Bolivia, Argentina and Chile, publicly voiced support for Paz's government.

Pic Credit: AFP