Bolivia Defense Minister urges Evo Morales to face justice

Bolivian Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano has called on former President Evo Morales to present himself before the judiciary to prevent potential violence and bloodshed. Justiniano accused Morales and his associates of attempting to nationalize sectoral protests, specifically those by producers, by adding political agendas to social movements.

In a separate statement regarding national stability, Justiniano expressed support for extending the current state of exception, which is set to expire on September 18. He argued that the measure, implemented in June following 50 days of road closures, has helped restore public order and economic activity through military patrols of critical infrastructure and strategic routes. While an extension requires a two-thirds majority in the Plurinational Legislative Assembly, the minister noted a favorable trend toward maintaining the measure to prevent renewed mobilizations.