Cochabamba authorities clash over anniversary celebrations

A jurisdictional dispute has emerged between the Cochabamba Municipal Government and the Departmental Government regarding the organization of the 216th anniversary celebrations. The conflict follows Supreme Decree 5691, which designates municipalities as the entities responsible for organizing these central acts rather than the departmental government.

Mayor Manfred Reyes Villa announced that the municipality will lead the civic acts, noting that the Ministry of the Presidency selected the local government for this responsibility. The municipal agenda includes a session of honor and the expected attendance of President Rodrigo Paz.

In response, the Departmental Government has maintained its own planned agenda for September 13 and 14, arguing that the celebration is a departmental event rather than a purely municipal one. While the municipality focuses on its scheduled events, the Departmental Government has extended invitations to all national authorities for its own organized activities, leading to parallel celebrations by both administrations.