Bolivia Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano blames protestors of narcotics ties and escalating violence

Bolivia Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano said the ongoing protests, which have lasted more than a month and call for President Rodrigo Paz’s resignation, are linked to transnational narcotics networks that aim to weaken the state. He noted that groups behind road blockades—led by campesino unions, the Bolivian Workers' Central and factions aligned with former president Evo Morales—have caused shortages, economic losses exceeding $2.34 billion and at least ten deaths.

Justiniano warned that some elements have moved “from blockades to bullets, terror and rebellion,” and announced that the government has enacted a law permitting the armed forces to intervene in protest control under defined conditions, pledging a firm response to protect democratic order.