Bolivian President declares state of emergency due to protests

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz has declared a state of emergency in the country due to protests with massive road closures. This was reported by the Reuters news agency on June 20.

It is noted that the closures of the communication routes actually paralyzed the country's economy for 50 days. Groups of protesters have blocked the supply of food, fuel and medicines to many areas, including the capital La Paz. It is clarified that the conflict initially arose after Pace reduced multi-year fuel subsidies in order to reduce the budget deficit. Even subsequent steps to stabilize fuel prices and repeal unpopular land reforms did not prevent the protests from escalating into widespread discontent with the government.

"The declaration of a state of emergency gives Pace broader constitutional tools to restore order, such as sending armed forces to disperse the blockers," the article says.

According to the agency, the decree comes into force immediately, but the president must notify Parliament about it within 24 hours. Then the deputies will have 72 hours to approve or reject the decision of the head of state.

Fuel full house: Bolivia faces protests over the economic policies of the new authorities

Subsidies for gasoline and diesel are being lifted in the country, prices have doubled.

On May 21, Bolivian Minister of Labor, Employment and Social Security Edgar Morales Mamani announced his resignation in order to stabilize the situation in the country amid protests. Paz appointed Jose Baskope Laruta as Williams' new labor minister.