23 Jan 2024 | 08:34 PM UTC
Bolivia: Activists maintain protests, blockades as of Jan. 23 /update 1
Protests, blockades persist in Bolivia, as of Jan. 23. Disruptions ongoing.
Supporters of former president Evo Morales affiliated with the National Confederation of Peasant Workers of Bolivia (Confederacion Sindical Unica de Trabajadores Campesinos de Bolivia, CSUTCB) are continuing their campaign of blocking thoroughfares in parts of the country as of Jan. 23. The purpose of the action is to demand the resignation of several magistrates. Protesters have blocked several roads, including the Cochabamba-Santa Cruz Highway and the Cochabamba-Oruro Highway near Parotani.
Authorities have suspended bus services from La Paz to Cochabamba, Santa Cruz, and Potosi due to the blockades. Activists plan to continue the action indefinitely until their demands are met. Although authorities have indicated that the blockades are occurring primarily in Cochabamba Department, similar protests could occur in other parts of Bolivia.
Heightened security is likely around protest sites; activists could continue to disrupt traffic along key thoroughfares through at least Jan. 30. Significant ground transport disruptions are probable in affected areas. The roadblocks may also lead to a shortage of essential goods, should the protest action become protracted. Clashes between demonstrators and police are possible.
Avoid all protests as a precaution and to minimize travel delays. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks; plan alternative routes and allow additional time for journeys through affected areas. Heed all official directives. Leave the area immediately at the first sign of any security disturbances.
