Anti-government protests have escalated across Bolivia, with thousands demanding President Rodrigo Paz's resignation as road blockades left the administrative capital La Paz short of food, fuel, and medicine.
On Monday, farmers, miners, teachers, public sector workers, and indigenous communities gathered in the city after weeks of campaigning for wage increases, economic stability, and opposition to the privatization of state-owned companies.
Bolivia is facing its worst economic crisis in 40 years, with year-on-year inflation reaching 14% in April, eroding purchasing power and intensifying anger over rising living costs.
“We want him to resign because he is incompetent. Bolivia is going through a chaotic moment,” said Ivan Alarcon, a 60-year-old farmer who traveled about 90 km (60 miles) from Caquiaviri in western Bolivia to join the protest.
Tear gas blanketed downtown La Paz for hours as riot police clashed with protesters trying to reach the main square, where key government buildings are located.
Protesters threw stones and small explosives in response. Authorities have not released official casualty figures, but AFP news agency reported at least two protesters injured.
Images released by the government showed protesters entering an office and making off with furniture, computers, and other equipment.
Local television station Unitel reported over 100 people detained nationwide.
Mr. Paz, who took office less than six months ago after two decades of mostly socialist rule, swiftly eliminated long-standing fuel subsidies that officials said had drained Bolivia’s foreign reserves.
The decision has so far failed to stabilize fuel supplies and instead fueled public anger over higher prices and shortages.
