Bolivia: Anti-government protest scheduled in Santa Cruz July 26

Event

The president of the Civic Committee of Cochabamba has called for another anti-government protest in Santa Cruz on Friday, July 26, to voice opposition to President Evo Morales' interest in seeking re-election. Details regarding the location of the demonstration were not immediately confirmed, but the protest will likely be held around government buildings. Related protests are to be expected in other urban centers across Bolivia.

Protesters have threatened to close Bolivia's borders as part of the demonstration. Associated transportation and commercial disruptions are likely near protests amid a heightened security presence. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Current President Evo Morales was re-elected for his third five-year term in 2014 and is seeking to win a fourth term in the October 2019 general election. In 2016, Morales succeeded in removing presidential term limits through the Constitutional Court. This has produced a great loss of support and growing discontent among Bolivians. Since, Bolivian citizens have organized demonstrations to express this discontent and opposition to Morales remaining in office. Groups and individuals opposed to Morales have participated in nationwide strikes, anti-government protests, several road blockades, strikes held by various sectors to oppose poor working conditions, and hunger strikes against Morales' candidacy and tenure as president.

Advice

Individuals in Santa Cruz are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstration areas as a precaution, anticipate transportation and business disruptions and a heightened security presence, and obey instructions issued by the local authorities.