Bolivian civic leaders summon YPFB chief over fuel shortages

Civic leaders in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, have called upon the president of the state oil company YPFB, Sebastián Daroca, to appear before their board on Monday. They demand an explanation for the persistent shortages of gasoline and diesel affecting Santa Cruz and the entire nation.

“

It will be a difficult task at this time, but he will have to provide explanations because not only the department of Santa Cruz, but the country is out of fuel.

Stello Cochamanidis, president of the Comité pro Santa Cruz, stated that the situation is difficult but requires accountability. "The whole country is out of fuel," he told reporters from a gas station. He highlighted the severe impact on daily life, including difficulties for students attending school and for workers commuting to their jobs.

“

We need diesel in the provinces so producers can work, and we need gasoline because the gas stations are empty.

The lack of diesel is particularly concerning for agricultural producers in the provinces, who rely on it for their operations. Cochamanidis warned that if the shortages continue, food production could suffer in the coming months, potentially leading to scarcity and higher prices.

“

Many children are not attending classes because there is no transportation, and it is becoming difficult to get to work.

Cochamanidis also criticized the national government for continuing to blame previous administrations for current problems. He pointed out that the current authorities have been in office for nine months and must now take responsibility and offer solutions. He warned that if Daroca fails to attend the meeting, the Comité pro Santa Cruz will consider further actions.

“

They are just like MAS (Movimiento Al Socialismo) blaming the previous governments. They knew how they were taking over the administration of the State.