LA PAZ, Bolivia — On Friday, Bolivian President Luis Arce expressed strong disapproval regarding the takeover of three military installations by supporters of former President Evo Morales. He labeled the actions as “an absolutely reprehensible criminal act” that deviates from any legitimate demands of the Indigenous agricultural movement.
In a post on X, Arce emphasized that “the appropriation of a military unit is an act of treason against the nation and a violation of the country’s Constitution.”
Earlier that day, the Bolivian Armed Forces released a statement indicating that “irregular armed groups” had captured military personnel and seized control of military units centrally located in the country. This occurred as police began efforts to clear roads that have been obstructed for 19 days by Morales’ supporters.
The military’s statement urged those involved in the takeover to “immediately and peacefully” vacate the premises, warning that “any individual who takes up arms against the nation will be deemed a traitor.” This caution arose following the emergence of videos on social media featuring a military leader believed to be in custody, who acknowledged the “peaceful” capture of a military regiment in the coca-producing area of Chapare. However, authorities have not confirmed whether this individual is affiliated with the Army.
In an effort to restore order, police deployed a substantial number of troops and machinery to clear the barriers, aided by a fraction of military police. The officers benefitted from the All Saints’ Day holiday, as many protesters temporarily left the roads to partake in celebrations.
Tensions escalated three weeks prior when Bolivian prosecutors initiated an investigation into allegations that Morales had fathered a child with a 15-year-old, categorizing their relationship as statutory rape. Morales has chosen not to testify in court regarding these allegations.
Amid speculation of an impending arrest warrant, the former president has remained in the Chapare region, with loyal coca growers providing protection against his apprehension.
Last week, a clash between law enforcement and Morales’ supporters resulted in injuries to 30 police officers, while over 50 protesters were detained. However, the protesters regained control of the roadways after law enforcement attempted to pass through.
The most severe unrest is occurring in Chapare, a stronghold and safe haven for Morales, where his advocates are threatening to seize police and military barracks as they demand that judicial actions against him be dropped.
Several stakeholders, including La Paz Mayor Iván Arias, have urged the government to declare a state of emergency in Cochabamba, the area most affected by the unrest. The government has been cautious about deploying soldiers in large numbers to dismantle the blockades. Critics argue that this demonstrates a lack of resolve in addressing the conflict amid a struggling economy plagued by rising costs and fuel shortages.
Despite resigning in 2019 amid widespread protests against his altered re-election, Morales continues to maintain a strong base of support among impoverished and Indigenous populations in Bolivia.