Bolivia Declares State Of Emergency, Taking Action To Dismantle Roadblocks
Bolivia’s government declared a state of emergency at the weekend after weeks of disruptive road blockades brought parts of the country’s transport network and supply chains to a standstill.
President Rodrigo Paz announced the measure on Saturday, giving security forces expanded powers to clear protest sites that have severely affected logistics, trade and access to essential goods over the past two months.
The demonstrations have been supported by workers’ unions, farmers and allies of former President Evo Morales. Protesters are calling for Paz to step down, accusing his government of failing to address the country’s mounting political and economic pressures.
The blockades have caused shortages of food, fuel and medical supplies in several regions, deepening the strain on communities already affected by rising tensions and disrupted services.
Paz said the emergency declaration was necessary to restore order and reopen key routes across the country. He accused organised groups of using violence to destabilise Bolivia and prevent a return to normal life.
Security forces have since begun removing roadblocks in several areas, with police and military units deployed to reopen highways and restore the movement of goods.
Reports from the weekend described tense and chaotic scenes around El Alto, where residents clashed as government tractors moved in to clear barricades. While some areas have begun to see traffic resume, the situation remains volatile, with further confrontations possible as authorities continue their operation.
The crisis has intensified Bolivia’s political divisions, with the government framing the blockades as a threat to national stability and protest leaders presenting them as a legitimate response to Paz’s leadership.
