Bolivia Declares State of Emergency Amidst Fuel and Food Blockades

Bolivia. President Rodrigo Paz has declared a state of emergency in Bolivia on Saturday. This will give the army broad powers to remove road blockades that are causing major disruptions to fuel and food supplies in the country's capital La Paz and other major cities.

The protests, which have been ongoing for five weeks, are demanding President Paz's resignation, protesting the government's strict austerity policies (especially fuel subsidy cuts) and other issues.

Violent clashes have occurred between protesters carrying dynamite and riot police during the demonstrations. According to officials, at least 365 people have been arrested and 37 injured so far.

According to Bolivia's Human Rights Commission and national human rights organizations, at least 17 people have died during the protests, most of whom died due to lack of timely medical treatment because of road blockades.

The blockades on major roads have completely surrounded the city of La Paz. The government stated that the siege has led to a shortage of fuel and food, disruption of transportation services, and at least seven deaths due to patients being unable to reach hospitals.

Rodrigo Paz came to power last November, ending the MAS party's nearly 20-year rule. He had promised to solve the fuel shortage, replenish the central bank's depleted coffers, and increase foreign investment. However, his austerity policies, including fuel subsidy cuts, have increased inflation and public dissatisfaction.

President Paz said in an address to the nation, "This state of emergency is not to restrict people's lives, but to return their freedom."

Due to business closures caused by the protests, supermarket shelves are empty, and hospitals are facing oxygen shortages. In such a situation, some groups have demanded that the president use force to restore order.

On Friday night, Paz reached an agreement with a trade union that had called for the removal of blockades. However, other protesters have rejected negotiations, demanding Paz's resignation.

President Paz stated that this state of emergency is to ensure fuel supply. Tankers have been stranded due to road blockades.

The emergency order prohibits actions that block roads, highways, etc., and gives the army the authority to assist the police in clearing roads and protecting the public. It does not, however, suspend constitutional rights and legal processes.

This emergency will last for 90 days, but can be lifted sooner if violence and threats to the public subside.