10 Jan 2023 | 07:50 AM UTC
Bolivia: Protests, blockades likely to continue nationwide, particularly in Santa Cruz Department, through mid-January due to high-profile arrest /update 2
Protests, blockades likely throughout Bolivia, particularly Santa Cruz Department, through mid-January, due to high-profile arrest.
Event
Protests are likely to continue throughout Bolivia, particularly in the Santa Cruz Department, through mid-January as activists denounce the federal government's Dec. 28 arrest of Santa Cruz Governor Luis Fernando Camacho, a leading national opposition figure. Demonstrators have set up blockades in several locations in the country, particularly in Santa Cruz Department. The organizers are aiming to pressure the federal government by limiting internal trade, particularly in food; Santa Cruz is the country's largest food producer. Organizers are also calling for a national strike Jan. 10 in support of Camacho. In turn, President Arce has called for supporters of the ruling Movement for Socialism Party (Movimiento al Socialism, MAS) to confront Camacho's supporters in the streets.
Significant transport and business disruptions are likely throughout Bolivia, particularly in the Santa Cruz Department, in the coming days. Clashes between rival protest groups and police and demonstrators are possible; authorities may use tear gas and detain demonstrators. Acts of violence against public and private property are possible, including the burning of government offices and vehicles. Blockades to border crossings with surrounding countries, particularly Brazil and Argentina, are possible.
Context
Camacho was detained in response to his role in leading protests in late 2022 that aimed to pressure the ruling Movement for Socialism Party (Movimiento al Socialism, MAS) to hold a national census on an earlier timeline. The census was seen as likely leading to the allocation of greater resources to Santa Cruz Department, a center of opposition politics.
Advice
Avoid all protests. Allow additional time to reach your destination if operating in Bolivia. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure. Do not drive passed protest roadblocks; wait for the police to clear them. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. If violence occurs, immediately take shelter in a secure, non-government building. Comply with directives of authorities.
