26 Jan 2023 | 04:23 AM UTC
Bolivia: Protests likely nationwide as of Jan. 26 following clashes in Santa Cruz between protesters and police /update 4
Protests likely across Bolivia as of Jan. 26 following clashes in Santa Cruz Jan. 25 between protesters and police. Disruptions likely.
Event
As of Jan. 26, protests are likely throughout Bolivia, especially in Santa Cruz Department, into early February following weeks of demonstrations over the arrest of Santa Cruz Governor Luis Fernando Camacho, a leading national opposition figure. Clashes between Camacho's supporters and police broke out in central Santa Cruz evening Jan. 25, with at least five police officers injured; the clashes followed a Jan. 25 meeting of anti-government organizations, led by the Pro Santa Cruz Committee (Comite Pro Santa Cruz), which called on activists nationwide to determine a new strategy.
Transport and business disruptions, including blockades, are possible nationwide, particularly in Santa Cruz Department. 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 burning government offices and vehicles. Blockades to border crossings with surrounding countries, particularly Brazil and Argentina, may also occur.
Context
Camacho was detained in response to his role in leading protests in 2019, following the presidential election that saw then-President Evo Morales re-elected amidst criticisms of fraud. The protests eventually led to police and military statements against Morales and his removal. Camacho, later elected governor of Santa Cruz, was also a key figure in 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 likely considered to lead to the allocation of greater resources to the 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.
