Bolivia: Opposition protests possible following arrest of former interim president

Event

The arrest of former interim president Jeanine Anez early March 13 may trigger opposition protests in Bolivia over the coming days. The Attorney General's Office issued an arrest warrant March 12 against Anez and several of her former ministers who have been accused of terrorism, sedition, and conspiracy. Anez is reportedly being detained in La Paz, after being transferred from her residence in Trinidad, Beni Department.

Should any protests materialize, the largest are likely to occur in Santa Cruz and La Paz, particularly near government buildings and on major thoroughfares. Police will probably deploy to monitor all large gatherings; clashes are possible if demonstrators disobey police orders to disband. Large gatherings are likely to trigger some localized traffic disruptions.

Context

The arrests are linked to the 2019 election crisis which ultimately saw then-President Evo Morales resign in November 2019 following days of violent unrest and calls from the military to resign. Anez, who was a senator at the time, was subsequently sworn in as interim president after the entire presidential line of succession resigned. Supporters of the Morales' Movement Toward Socialism (Movimiento al Socialismo, MAS) have accused Anez and others of being involved in an alleged coup against Morales at the time. Anez has denounced her arrest as an act of political persecution. The Civic Community opposition coalition and former presidents Jorge Quiroga and Carlos Mesa have also denounced the issuing of the arrest warrants.

Advice

Avoid all protests and heed the directives of the authorities. Monitor local media for updates on the status of roads and protest locations may not be announced in advance. Exit the area at the first sign of any confrontation. Plan accordingly for potential disruptions to ground travel, especially in Santa Cruz and La Paz.