Panama expresses deep concern over 'extremist groups' actions in Bolivia

Panama has voiced "profound concern" regarding the actions of "extremist groups and destabilizing actors" in Bolivia, which it believes are attempting to disrupt the Andean nation's democratic order and incite social conflict. The statement from Panama's Foreign Ministry underscores the regional unease over the ongoing political turmoil.

Bolivia has been grappling with widespread road blockades for over a month, initiated by indigenous and peasant sectors aligned with former leftist President Evo Morales. Their primary demand is the resignation of the current center-right President Rodrigo Paz, who recently marked seven months in office. These protests have significantly impacted the country's stability and daily life.

The blockades have led to severe consequences, including the deaths of at least seven individuals who could not receive timely medical attention, and three additional deaths related to the protests. The National Chamber of Industries (CNI) estimates economic losses at $2.1 billion, with widespread shortages of food, fuel, and medicine affecting large parts of the country.

Panama's Foreign Ministry "categorically rejects any attempt to undermine Bolivia's institutional stability through means outside of democratic mechanisms and the rule of law." Meanwhile, Bolivia's Chamber of Deputies has approved a law regulating states of exception, particularly for "internal commotion," which would allow the armed forces to intervene if the police are overwhelmed. President Paz must now decide whether to promulgate the law and issue a decree for a state of exception, which would require parliamentary validation within 72 hours.