La Paz – The Bolivian Assembly voted on Thursday to prolong the nation‑wide state of emergency for an additional 90 days, acting on a request from President Rodrigo Paz’s administration. The move is intended to head off a resurgence of road blockades that have already crippled the country’s supply chains.
Why the extension was deemed necessary
When the emergency was first declared in June, more than 50 days of blockades shut down major highways, creating shortages of food, gasoline and essential medicines. Those disruptions deepened an already fragile economic situation. Government officials say recent police and military intelligence indicates that protest groups remain poised to organize new blockades, which could again jeopardize the flow of goods.
Government officials present their case
Minister of Government Marco Antonio Oviedo and Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano appeared before legislators to explain the need for the extension. Both cited detailed reports from security forces warning of “threats and risk of further mobilizations” in key transport corridors. They argued that maintaining the emergency powers gives the authorities the legal tools needed to deploy police and, if necessary, the armed forces to keep highways open.
Opposition voices raise concerns
Not all lawmakers agreed. A handful of social sector representatives and opposition members questioned whether extending emergency powers was the right approach. Opposition legislator Gabriel Corvera warned that the measure merely treats the symptoms of unrest without addressing the underlying economic and social grievances driving the protests.
What the extension means for Bolivians
The renewed emergency grants the executive branch broader authority to restrict gatherings, enforce curfews and mobilize security forces without the usual procedural hurdles. While critics argue this could limit civil liberties, supporters contend that a firm response is essential to protect the nation’s food security and prevent further economic decline.
International perspective
Regional observers have noted that prolonged emergencies can be a double‑edged sword: they may stabilize a volatile situation in the short term but risk alienating segments of the population if not paired with concrete economic reforms. The Bolivian government has pledged to pair security measures with a “comprehensive plan” to address inflation, unemployment and the shortage of basic goods.
Looking ahead
The Assembly’s vote marks the official start of the 90‑day extension, which will run through December. During that period, the government says it will continue to monitor the security situation closely and will adjust tactics as needed. The hope expressed by officials is that a decisive, orderly response will deter future blockades and allow the economy to begin a modest recovery.
For Bolivians who rely on daily deliveries of food, fuel and medicine, the extension is presented as a necessary safeguard. Whether the policy will succeed in restoring stability without eroding public trust remains to be seen, but the administration is confident that a firm hand now will prevent a repeat of the June crisis.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
