Bolivia Defence Minister Resigns as 2-Week Blockades Cost El Alto $6.5 Million a Day
Updated
Updated · AnewZ · Jun 3
Bolivia Defence Minister Resigns as 2-Week Blockades Cost El Alto $6.5 Million a Day
3 articles · Updated · AnewZ · Jun 3
Summary
Marcelo Salinas quit on June 2, becoming the highest-ranking official to leave President Rodrigo Paz's government since protests over austerity measures erupted a month ago.
Two-week road blockades into Bolivia's two biggest cities have caused food and medical shortages, while El Alto's mayor said the city is losing about $6.5 million a day.
Beatriz Garcia also resigned as education minister, adding to cabinet turmoil after Paz had already begun a reshuffle in May that included the labor minister's exit.
Paz is weighing emergency powers that could put troops on the streets, but his government has ruled out resigning despite protesters demanding he reverse spending cuts and fuel-subsidy reductions.
The unrest is hitting a country of 12.7 million already facing its worst economic crisis in decades, with fuel shortages, weak foreign-currency reserves and a pending reform package before Congress.
With his own Vice President now in opposition, can President Paz's government survive the escalating crisis?
Is Evo Morales masterminding Bolivia's chaos, or is he a scapegoat for failed economic policies?
Can an IMF loan save Bolivia when the required austerity measures are fueling a popular revolt?
Blockades, Shortages, and Cabinet Splits: Bolivia’s 2026 Crisis and the Fight for Democratic Stability
Overview
Bolivia is facing a severe crisis marked by the resignation of Defence Minister Marcelo Salinas amid escalating nationwide protests and blockades. President Rodrigo Paz’s administration is struggling with acute shortages of fuel and foreign currency, leading to severe scarcities of food and medical supplies in major cities like La Paz and El Alto. The unrest has intensified, with transportation networks crippled and both the government and protesters taking uncompromising positions. Internal divisions have emerged within the cabinet, especially as the US pressures Bolivia to declare martial law. These events highlight deep economic troubles and growing political instability across the country.