Bolivia President Declares Nationwide Emergency Amid Prolonged Protests

President Rodrigo Baz announced a nationwide state of emergency in Bolivia after more than six weeks of mass protests over rising living costs, fuel shortages and economic grievances. The demonstrations, led by the main labor union and joined by farmers, miners and other groups, blocked roads, disrupting food, medicine and fuel supplies. In his televised address, Baz said all dialogue avenues had been exhausted and authorized the army and police to restore order and reopen the highways.

A same‑day agreement with the principal labor federation halted its actions for 90 days, secured a government pledge not to privatise state‑owned enterprises and established joint committees to address outstanding issues, including the release of detained protestors. The deal was not accepted by all factions; coca‑grower and indigenous groups in Chapare vowed to keep blockades and accused the government of a coup attempt linked to drug‑cartel networks and former president Evo Morales. The emergency measures aim to normalise daily life while the government pursues negotiations with the unions.