Bolivian Citizens Demand State of Exception Amidst Widespread Protests

Hundreds of Bolivians representing various organizations have called on the government to declare a state of exception to quell escalating protests and road blockades. These demonstrations, initiated in early May by peasant unions, workers, and supporters of former President Evo Morales, are demanding the resignation of current President Rodrigo Paz.

Participants in a citizen assembly held in La Paz's historic San Francisco square, including platform members, civic associations, merchants, miners, and religious groups, approved resolutions to present to the government. Under the slogan "Work yes, blockade no," they chanted for a state of exception. Leonel Cóndor Huayra, president of the Multisectoral Committee of La Paz, read the final proclamation, which criticized the blockades and the union leaders instigating the protests.

The proclamation specifically called for a state of exception and the resignation of "bad leaders," naming Mario Argollo, executive of the Bolivian Workers' Central (COB). It also demanded the execution of an arrest warrant for former President Morales (2006-2019) and the resignation of Vice President Edmand Lara, who is openly opposed to the government. Luis Aruquipa, president of the United Evangelical Churches, announced he had filed a popular action lawsuit seeking Paz's implementation of a state of exception in conflict zones.

Similar demands were voiced in Sucre, the constitutional capital and seat of the judiciary, where various sectors urged the government to resolve the conflict "immediately and definitively" using all legal mechanisms, including a state of exception. President Paz recently signed a law regulating states of exception, which allows the Armed Forces to control protests, though a decree is still needed for its automatic implementation and legislative approval.

The government has accused Morales of inciting and financing the protests with illicit drug money, allegations Morales denies. The ongoing conflicts, which began in early May, have led to severe shortages of food, fuel, and medical supplies in several cities. At least ten people have died, including seven who could not receive timely medical attention due to the road blockades. Economic losses have exceeded $2.34 billion.