Fuel Crisis Escalates, Unrest Erupts as Citizens Stage National Strike

International Photo: Fuel Crisis Escalates, Unrest Erupts as Citizens Stage National Strike Comment SHARE url has been copied Reuters, CNBC Indonesia 15 May 2026 13:25 Protesters from mining unions face off against police forces as they protest against the government of President Rodrigo Paz amid the ongoing economic and fuel crisis, in La Paz, Bolivia, Thursday (14/5/2026). (REUTERS/Claudia Morales)

Bolivia is currently in the midst of a severe political and economic crisis. As of mid-May 2026, the South American nation is almost paralyzed by a wave of national strikes and widespread road blockades. (REUTERS/Claudia Morales)

The tension involves a three-way conflict between the government of President Rodrigo Paz, factions supporting former president Evo Morales, and labour unions and indigenous groups. (REUTERS/Claudia Morales)

The large-scale protests, which began in early May 2026, were triggered by the accumulation of public dissatisfaction with the economic situation and controversial agrarian policies. (REUTERS/Claudia Morales)

The conflict escalated sharply this week. According to local authorities via Reuters, there are at least 38 major road blockades spread throughout the country. (REUTERS/Claudia Morales)

The situation is further complicated by the involvement of former President Evo Morales. Morales, who is currently facing an arrest warrant in a legal case, has mobilized his supporters to carry out a “long march” from Caracollo to La Paz to demand that President Rodrigo Paz resign. (REUTERS/Claudia Morales)

Influential indigenous groups, such as the Ponchos Rojos, as well as teachers’ unions, have joined the national strike in strategic areas such as El Alto and the administrative capital, La Paz. (REUTERS/Claudia Morales)