Bolivia's Paz warns 'narcoterrorists' fueling protests: 'Your days are numbered'

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz has issued a stark warning to "narcoterrorists" fueling protests that demand his resignation, stating their "days are numbered." The government has enacted a new law empowering the military to control demonstrations, a move that follows weeks of unrest and clashes that have injured four police officers. These protests, involving workers, farmers, miners, transporters, and teachers, have led to dozens of road blockades, paralyzing major cities for five weeks.

Paz alleges that criminal factions involved in drug trafficking are behind the violent elements of the protests. The newly enacted law grants him the authority to declare a state of exception, which would restrict freedoms of assembly and movement, crucial for protest activities. "To the violent, to the narcoterrorists... your days are numbered. We will enforce what the Constitution mandates," Paz declared during a ceremony at the government palace.

The Bolivian government, now a U.S. ally, also accuses former President Evo Morales of instigating the strong protests. Paz claims these demonstrations aim to "alter the democratic order." Morales, who is currently a fugitive facing charges of human trafficking that he denies, described the unrest as a "rebellion" against a government he claims is subservient to the Trump administration.

Protesters are rejecting Paz's reform proposals. Paz came to power after ending 20 years of socialist rule under Evo Morales and Luis Arce. The demonstrators are also frustrated by the government's perceived lack of progress in addressing the country's worst economic crisis in four decades.