Bolivian riot police clashed with protesters on December 19 as fresh demonstrations demanding President Luis Arce's resignation swept the capital La Paz. According to field reports, police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds gathered outside government buildings.
The protests have escalated since last month, driven largely by concerns over fuel and foreign currency shortages as well as corruption allegations against the Arce administration. Protesters carried banners calling for the leftist leader to step down and for early elections.
Speaking to the crowd, a protest group spokesperson said: 'We are demanding that Arce leave. He no longer represents the Bolivian people.' However, the presidency insists Arce will not resign, accusing opposition forces of instigating the demonstrations.
Previous clashes also occurred in the city of Santa Cruz, where protesters blocked major roads in opposition to the government's economic policies. The security situation in Bolivia remains tense, with multiple calls for dialogue to avoid further violence.
