Bolivia’s President Rodrigo Paz announces a cabinet reshuffle and related measures as anti-government protests continue across the country. Multiple outlets report that the unrest has intensified over several weeks, with demonstrators erecting roadblocks in cities including La Paz and unions and Indigenous and other groups renewing calls for Paz to resign. Protesters link their demands to worsening economic conditions, including demands for salary increases, stable fuel supplies, and steps to address what sources describe as the country’s worst economic crisis in decades.
In response to the pressure, Paz announces plans to reshuffle his cabinet aimed at making the government more inclusive and to help defuse the crisis. Reports also say he names a new economic and social council as part of the measures. One outlet says Paz’s first public appearance in nearly a week comes after the roadblock campaign.
During the renewed demonstrations, riot police use tear gas against protesters in La Paz, according to one report. Another outlet adds that Paz fires his Labour Minister and promises miners and other street groups a greater role in shaping policy, as clashes occur during additional marches.
