Bolivia President Rodrigo Paz faces minister resignations and civilian mobilization controversy amid blockades

President Rodrigo Paz's cabinet suffered two resignations on Tuesday as Bolivia endures a prolonged political and social crisis marked by 33 consecutive days of road blockades. Defence Minister Marcelo Salinas stepped down, and Education Minister Beatriz García also tendered her resignation. Earlier, Labour Minister Edgar Morales had been replaced by attorney Williams Bascopé. The government is seeking replacements amid growing pressure from protestors demanding the president’s resignation.

A video later removed from social media showed Paz urging "all Bolivian society" to join the armed forces and police in restoring order and clearing blockades. Spokesperson José Luis Gálvez said the clip was released without final review but was intended to rally public support for security forces. Vice‑minister Paredes echoed a possible strategy of broad societal involvement, while opposition Senator Leonardo Roca warned that civilian participation in road‑clearing could risk safety and should remain the sole responsibility of the armed forces and police.