Bolivian President Announces Cabinet Reshuffle

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz announced on May 20, 2026, his intention to reorganize his cabinet in La Paz, Bolivia, amidst ongoing anti-government protests and calls for his resignation. This decision follows weeks of demonstrations against his administration's economic restructuring measures, including cuts to fuel subsidies, which have contributed to one of the country's most severe economic crises in decades.

Paz, who assumed office in November, stated the reshuffle aims to alleviate tensions with protesters. His government has faced significant backlash from various sectors, including farmers, laborers, miners, and teachers, who oppose his free-market reforms. Clashes between riot police and demonstrators have occurred in the capital, La Paz.

The government has characterized the protests as destabilizing and anti-democratic, with Foreign Affairs Minister Fernando Aramayo asserting they aim to disrupt the democratic order. Former leftist President Evo Morales has supported the demonstrations, while the Paz administration accuses him of inciting unrest. The United States, under President Donald Trump, has expressed support for Paz's government, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemning efforts to "overthrow democratically elected leaders." Additionally, Bolivia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced plans to expel the Colombian ambassador, citing interference after Colombian President Gustavo Petro described the protests as a "popular insurrection."