Bolivia protests against President Paz widen with violent clashes, looting in La Paz
Summary
Protests in Bolivia’s capital, La Paz, have grown violent as people demand President Rodrigo Paz resign amid a deep economic crisis. Riot police clashed with demonstrators who looted government offices, blocked roads, and called for higher wages and an end to privatization.Key Facts
- Bolivia faces its worst economic crisis in 40 years, with inflation at 14% in April.
- Protests involve farmers, miners, teachers, and Indigenous groups demanding wage increases and economic stability.
- President Rodrigo Paz, a conservative elected less than six months ago, canceled fuel subsidies to save money but has not stabilized fuel supplies.
- Riot police used tear gas against protesters, who responded with stones and explosives.
- Protesters looted government offices, taking furniture and computers; over 100 people were reportedly detained.
- Authorities issued an arrest warrant for Mario Argollo, leader of Bolivia’s largest union, accusing him of terrorism and inciting crime.
- Supporters of former president Evo Morales have joined the protests, marching from other regions to La Paz.
- The protests have caused severe shortages of food and medicine due to blocked roads into the capital.
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