Bolivia’s President Declares State of Emergency Amid Nationwide Protests

President Rodrigo Paz announced a state of emergency to give his government the ability to clear road blocks that are paralyzing large parts of the nation and causing shortages of basic goods.

The move, which will require approval from Congress within 72 hours, seeks to free blocked roads and restore normalcy, according to Paz’s statement.

The country has been hit by blockades led by miners, farmers and indigenous groups since late April, demanding fuel subsidies and a rollback of austerity measures, and calling for Paz’s resignation.

Hundreds have been arrested and several fatalities have been reported amid the unrest, which has disrupted transport, food supplies and medical services.

Paz described the crisis as an organized attempt to destabilise Bolivia, and said the government is under no remorse over its response.

Earlier this month, a bill passed by Congress made it easier for the president to declare emergency powers and deploy soldiers to break up protests.

The president has previously attempted to ease tensions by reshuffling his cabinet, cutting salaries, and opening a council for dialogue with protest groups, but these measures have not stopped the road blockades.

Critics claim the government’s reforms, including a new constitution, undermine oversight of natural resources and pull the country away from public sector protections.

Paz has accused former left‑wing president Evo Morales of orchestrating the protests, a claim that Morales has denied.