Bolivia: Protests in urban centers nationwide November 7 /update 21

Event

Demonstrations, including marches and roadblocks, were reported in urban centers across Bolivia on Thursday, November 7. These demonstrations come after a protester was killed when violent clashes broke out between pro- and anti-government protest groups in Cochabamba department on Wednesday, November 6. This is the third person to be killed since protests began on October 20.

Protests were also reported in La Paz, where opposition leader Luis Fernando Camacho arrived on Wednesday to demand the resignation of President Evo Morales. Further violence is possible over the coming days as tensions remain high around the country.

A heightened security presence and associated disruptions are anticipated around all protest sites. Protests are expected to continue in La Paz and other parts of the country over the coming days.

Context

Tensions have been high in the country since the Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Bolivia (TSE) halted its provisionary vote count on October 20 after 83 percent of the ballot was completed. Initial results indicated that President Evo Morales was short of securing the 10-percentage point lead needed to prevent a runoff election. However, on October 21, the TSE updated the count, indicating that President Evo Morales secured 47.08 percent of the vote against his primary rival Carlos Mesa, who received 35.51 percent, preventing a runoff. Political opposition supporters are accusing the TSE of manipulating the vote in favor of Morales. The protests have already left 30 wounded in the violence and constant clashes with police.

Advice

Individuals in La Paz and across Bolivia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, prepare for disruptions to transportation and business in demonstration- and strike-affected areas, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.