Bolivia President Rodolfo Pás Faces Mass Protest Over Salary Cuts

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in La Paz demanding the resignation of President Rodolfo Pás after he announced a 50 % cut to his own salary and that of his ministers. The protest, part of a wave of unrest that began in early May following a strike called by the COB union, saw roadblocks set up in several cities, including La Paz, El Alto, Oruro, Potosí and Cochabamba, leading to shortages of food, medicine and fuel.

Clashes erupted around the Murillo Plaza as some protesters tried to breach the security perimeter surrounding the presidential palace. Police responded with tear‑gas and baton charges. Protesters accused the government of poor economic policies, low wages and even the supply of low‑quality gasoline that damaged vehicles. The president rejected negotiations, warning that a minority cannot govern, while emphasizing a “national effort” to address the deepening economic crisis – the worst in four decades.

The demonstrations have remained largely peaceful in the capital, with a heavy police presence, but the nationwide blockades continue to strain basic supplies and heighten political tension.