Nationwide protests rocked Bolivia on Friday as labour and farming unions blocked roadways, calling for centre-right President Rodrigo Paz to resign over rising fuel costs and shortages as energy prices surge globally.The demonstrations that started earlier this month escalated after Paz reshuffled his cabinet this week in an attempt to quell backlash over the scrapping of fuel subsidies as the South American nation contends with rising inflation and low wages.
As protesters clashed with police at marches in the capital of La Paz, the Bolivian government and the armed forces announced that “humanitarian corridors” would be opened on Saturday so that medications, food and fuel could pass through roadblocks.
At least three people died this week on backed-up highways awaiting medical treatment, according to the government, while hospitals have warned of limited supplies. Food prices have surged, with some shops in La Paz and other big cities reporting shortages of basic goods.