Bolivian President Faces Resignation Demands

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz is facing escalating demands for his resignation and widespread social unrest across the country, six months into his administration. Since early May 2026, indigenous groups and labor unions have initiated highway blockades and protests, primarily in La Paz and El Alto, disrupting daily life and causing food shortages.

The unrest began with diverse sector-based grievances, including calls for wage increases, complaints about contaminated fuel, and opposition to a land classification law. While the government addressed some initial demands, such as repealing the land law and offering teacher bonuses, indigenous groups intensified protests, demanding Paz's removal due to perceived inability to resolve structural problems and a shift in his political agenda.

Analysts attribute the sustained discontent to a sense of exclusion and betrayal among indigenous and working-class sectors, who were instrumental in Paz's election with 55% of the vote. These groups, previously aligned with the Movement for Socialism (MAS) administration, perceive Paz's government as favoring business elites, evidenced by policies like eliminating a tax on large fortunes and appointing business figures to his cabinet.

Former President Evo Morales has further amplified pressure by mobilizing supporters for a march on La Paz, demanding Paz's resignation and the suspension of legal proceedings against himself.