Interior Minister Rios accused the protesters of attempting to ‘hold entire cities hostage.’

Since Sunday night, social and political organizations that support former President Evo Morales have been blocking roads and avenues in protest of the worsening living conditions caused by the economic crisis.

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Besides demanding the resignation of President Luis Arce, citizens are also calling for Evo Morales to be allowed to run as a presidential candidate.

In Cochabamba, authorities confirmed at least nine roadblocks on highways, affecting the supply of basic goods and fuel. The protests have also disrupted traffic between the departments of Sucre and La Paz. “Evistas” have cut off vehicle circulation in municipalities such as Sipe Sipe, Mizque and Vacas.

Commenting on the roadblocks, Interior Minister Roberto Rios accused the protesters of attempting to “hold entire cities hostage.” “The goal is not to improve the country’s situation, but to push for a candidacy that does not meet legal requirements,” he said, noting that a Constitutional Court ruling prohibits indefinite reelection and bars Evo Morales from running for president again.

The text reads, “In Chuquisaca, drivers decide to join the national strike and roadblock this Tuesday.”

Undeterred by threats, Indigenous leader Juan Enrique Mamani said the protests would continue “until the Arce government steps down.”

Drivers, students, university professors, farmers and rural residents have also announced protests against the economic crisis. Some of these social groups have already begun blocking roads in Potosi, Sucre and Pando, while also participating in urban demonstrations in cities such as El Alto and La Paz.

Amid concerns about increasing unrest, Defense Minister Edmundo Novillo warned that if the protests spiral out of control, the government may deploy the Armed Forces to ensure democratic stability and public safety. The Arce administration said it will use all legal mechanisms to prevent the protests from undermining the country’s institutional framework.

teleSUR/ JF

Sources: ANF – Radio Fides

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