Bolivian Economy Minister censured amid fuel price crisis

Bolivia is facing significant political and economic instability. The Plurinational Legislative Assembly has censured Economy and Public Finance Minister José Gabriel Espinoza with 91 votes, a decision that mandates his removal by President Rodrigo Paz. This censure follows intense scrutiny regarding sovereign bonds, the destruction of currency, delays in the General State Budget, and controls at Banco Unión.

Simultaneously, the country is grappling with a fuel crisis. Vice President Edmand Lara has denounced a “dieselazo,” referring to a nearly 100 percent increase in diesel prices for large consumers, which has raised concerns about rising costs for food and transport. While YPFB reports efforts to maintain fuel supplies in regions like Potosí, citizens continue to report long queues at service stations.

In other developments, Minister Espinoza is also facing legal investigation regarding the purchase of an Audi vehicle, which he claims was a clerical error. Meanwhile, in Tarija, police are preparing for the Virgin of Chaguaya pilgrimage, deploying 300 officers to ensure safety during the event.