Overview of the Situation
On Saturday, Bolivia’s Foreign Ministry expressed serious concerns regarding the ongoing unrest linked to supporters of former president Evo Morales. The ministry accused these groups of holding over 200 soldiers hostage as protests intensified against what Morales claims are politically motivated charges against him.
Details from the Foreign Ministry
According to the Foreign Ministry, on Friday, three military units located in the central province of Chapare were reportedly “assaulted by irregular groups.” The ministry detailed that these assailants managed to take more than 200 military personnel hostage from three barracks while seizing weapons and ammunition in the process.
Government’s Response and Future Dialogue
The government has indicated its willingness to engage in dialogue with various sectors of society. However, the Foreign Ministry warned that constructive dialogue cannot take place as long as the Bolivian people are subject to abuses from groups that do not prioritize the national interest. The ministry emphasized that these groups appear to be driven by personal and electoral aspirations of Morales rather than the collective welfare of the country. In light of this, the Bolivian government has deployed troops to Cochabamba to assist police in dismantling roadblocks established by protesters. Recent clashes have resulted in injuries to 30 police officers and over 50 arrests during standoffs.
As tensions rise, Morales encouraged his supporters on Friday to consider temporarily pausing road closures to prevent further violence, announcing his intention to initiate a hunger strike until both sides engage in negotiations.