Bolivia: Heightened security likely ahead of judicial elections on Dec. 15

Judicial elections will occur in Bolivia on Dec. 15 to elect members of the Plurinational Constitutional Court, Supreme Court of Justice, Agro-environmental Court, and Judicial Council. Authorities plan to deploy around 20,000 police officers to monitor the vote, and tight security measures are likely, especially at polling stations, government buildings, and other sensitive sites. In Santa Cruz Department, alcohol sales and consumption will be banned from 00:01 Dec. 13 to 12:00 Dec. 16; similar bans are likely nationwide, although the duration of restrictions may vary. Public events and meetings will be banned, and vehicle traffic restrictions will be in place on election day.

Road closures are probable, particularly near polling stations, and may disrupt transport and business operations. Politically motivated rallies and demonstrations are possible, especially near polling stations and government buildings in urban centers. Protests could turn violent, mainly if police use force to disperse crowds.