Bolivia's Cochabamba governor seeks humanitarian pause amid nationwide road blockades

Cochabamba Governor Leonardo Loza asked protestors to observe an eight‑hour humanitarian pause in the road blockades that have disrupted ambulances, food supplies and transport across Bolivia. He emphasized that the request does not abandon the protesters’ demands but aims to protect lives and livelihoods.

Public Works Minister Mauricio Zamora rejected the pause, labeling Loza “hypocritical” and warning that it could enable armed groups to move toward La Paz and El Alto. Zamora called for a total lifting of the blockades, citing severe shortages of food, medicine and economic losses.

The government, led by President Rodrigo Paz, said it is maintaining dialogue, holding meetings with departmental mayors in Potosí to discuss demands. Police forces reported two officers wounded by gunfire during an attempted clearing in San Julián. Meanwhile, a humanitarian corridor has been opened to deliver medical oxygen to hospitals in La Paz and El Alto, addressing critical needs in neonatal and intensive‑care units.