Bolivia: Fears of bombings during February 21 protests /update 1

Event

Police will be on alert due to fears of bombing attacks during major nationwide protests set to take place on Wednesday, February 21. Search operations targeting potential explosive devices will be carried out in the capital Sucre and all departmental capitals throughout the day. This increased vigilance comes following two deadly explosions in the city of Oruro on February 10 and February 13, which together left a dozen people dead; the first explosion - which occurred during carnival celebrations - was initially believed to be an accident but police now believe the two explosions are related. 

A nationwide general strike and protests both in support of and against President Evo Morales’ bid for a fourth presidential term in 2019 will be held on Wednesday. The largest gatherings are expected in La Paz, El Alto, and Santa Cruz. Major transportation disruptions, including roadblocks, are to be anticipated. Clashes between rival protesters and/or between protesters and police are possible.

Context

In February 2016, Bolivia held a constitutional referendum to remove presidential term limits, which would have allowed President Morales to run for a fourth consecutive term in the 2019 elections. The referendum failed, but in November 2017 the Constitutional Court (Tribunal Constitucional Plurinacional; TCP) removed the term limits as part of a penal code overhaul, provoking major protests and strikes throughout the country. In January 2018, the government announced it was rescinding those (and other) controversial reforms.

Advice

Individuals present in Bolivia are advised report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities and avoid all protests and associated roadblocks due to the potential for violence.