# Political tension and unrest in Bolivia

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/political-tension-and-unrest-in-bolivia
> Updated: 2026-09-25T22:04:15.000Z. Sources: 19. Developments: 2.

Bolivia is experiencing escalating political and social tensions following an ultimatum from former President Evo Morales to the administration of Rodrigo Paz. Morales has demanded the repeal of economic decrees, specifically Supreme Decree 5716, which removes diesel subsidies, and Supreme Decree 5727, concerning the restructuring of public companies. He has threatened national mobilizations and road blockades beginning October 13 if these demands are not met by October 3.

The government has maintained a firm stance, with Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano stating that ‘no one is above the law’ and noting that Morales faces active arrest warrants for charges including terrorism and instigation of public crime. President Paz has criticized Morales, accusing him of seeking conflict rather than negotiation.

Social unrest is expanding as the Central Obrera Boliviana (COB) holds emergency assemblies to address the economic measures, and the agricultural sector in Tarija expresses concern over food emergencies and gasoline prices. Meanwhile, the Catholic Church has called for dialogue to prevent further national division.

## Claims

- National mobilizations and marches toward La Paz are scheduled to begin on October 13 if demands are not met. (corroborated by 7 sources)
- The protesters demand the repeal of Supreme Decree 5716, which eliminated diesel subsidies. (corroborated by 7 sources)
- Evo Morales issued an ultimatum to the Rodrigo Paz administration to repeal specific economic decrees by October 3. (corroborated by 6 sources)
- The protesters demand the repeal of Supreme Decree 5727, which concerns the restructuring or liquidation of public companies. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano stated that no one is above the law in response to Morales' threats. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Dieter Mendoza threatened armed insurgency across Bolivia if there are attempts against the life of Evo Morales. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-25: Bolivia faces political tension as Evo Morales threatens protests

Former President Evo Morales has threatened mass protests in Bolivia starting October 13 if the government does not repeal economic decrees regarding diesel subsidies and public companies by October 3.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bolivian-episcopal-conference-calls-for-dialogue-amid-political-tension

### 2026-09-21: Mexican Episcopal Conference calls for peace and security

The Mexican Episcopal Conference called on citizens and authorities to build peace daily, urging against becoming accustomed to violence, extortion, and insecurity across the country.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mexican-episcopal-conference-calls-for-peace-and-security

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Cite as: Political tension and unrest in Bolivia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/political-tension-and-unrest-in-bolivia