Bolivia is experiencing significant disruptions due to ongoing protests by farmers demanding an end to judicial persecution against their leader, Evo Morales. The protests, which have persisted for nine days, have resulted in numerous roadblocks, isolating major cities such as Cochabamba from La Paz, Oruro, Potosí, Sucre, and Santa Cruz.
In La Paz, the protests have led to rising prices of essential goods and long queues at gas stations. Public transport drivers have also joined the demonstrations, halting traffic on numerous routes due to fuel shortages.
President Luis Arce's government blames Morales' supporters for obstructing fuel distribution, leaving hundreds of tanker trucks stranded on blocked roads. The situation escalated following the announcement of an arrest warrant against Morales, who is under investigation for alleged sexual abuse.
Morales accuses Arce of attempting to eliminate him politically, as both vie for the presidential candidacy in the upcoming 2025 elections. Initially, the protests aimed to prevent Morales' arrest, but they have since evolved into broader demands for solutions to the ongoing economic crisis and fuel shortages.
Political analysts highlight the challenges of negotiation in Bolivia's highly polarized political landscape. Supporters of Morales have sent letters to Arce, demanding his recognition as the official candidate and the cessation of judicial actions against him.
As protests continue, the economic impact is profound, with losses estimated at over $81 million since the blockades began on October 14. The roadblocks have severed critical connections between Bolivia's economic hubs, exacerbating the country's economic struggles.
Bolivia's economic context is concerning, with a reported annual inflation rate of 6.2% in September, the highest since July 2014.