Bolivia: Protests Erupt as Morales' Supporters Clash with Police Amidst Election Disputes

Bolivia is facing escalating political turmoil as supporters of former President Evo Morales clashed with police on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. The clashes resulted in at least thirteen officers injured, some by dynamite explosions, amidst widespread road blockades. President Luis Arce has accused Morales of inciting the protests to force his candidacy in the upcoming elections. Morales' supporters have blocked major highways in central and southern Bolivia, demanding Arce's resignation. They blame him for the economic crisis and for sidelining Morales from the presidential elections scheduled for August 17. The government reported 19 arrests during the confrontations. The Bolivian Foreign Ministry has denounced Morales' actions as destabilizing and aimed at shortening Arce's mandate and imposing an unconstitutional candidacy. Road blockades and protests are ongoing, with concerns raised about potential violence and disruption to the country.