The President of Bolivia declared a state of emergency and sent the army onto the streets following the protests.

The Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz announced on Saturday the imposition of a state of emergency in Bolivia to clear the roads blocked by protests from farmers and supporters of former President Evo Morales, who are demanding his resignation.

The measure was communicated via social media and television, a few hours after signing an agreement with the Central Obrera Boliviana (COB) for the pacification of the country, an agreement rejected by other sectors. Paz stated that Bolivians cannot be hostages of the blockades that affect their daily lives. He instructed the Police and Armed Forces to restore free transport and ensure the safety of the population.

The President accused the protests of being part of a destabilization strategy orchestrated by narcoterrorism and mentioned that, although he sought dialogue, he decided to declare a state of emergency after exhausting all options. The measure prohibits road blockades and the use of violence, and the protests have led to shortages of food and fuel, resulting in at least 16 deaths.