Bolivia's New Defense Minister Aims to Clear Roadblocks amid Unrest

Bolivia's President Rodrigo Paz has appointed Ernesto Justiniano as the new defense minister. Amidst ongoing social unrest, Justiniano is tasked with resolving widespread roadblocks in major cities. Protests, driven by labor unions and Evo Morales supporters, demand policy reversals on austerity and living costs. A bill proposes joint police-military efforts.

Bolivia's President Rodrigo Paz appointed Ernesto Justiniano as the new defense minister on Wednesday. Justiniano, tasked with restoring normalcy in Bolivia's tumultuous regions, vowed to clear the roadblocks that have paralyzed major cities due to ongoing social unrest.

In his statement, Justiniano highlighted the need for accessible roads, supply distribution, medical assistance, peace, and economic stability. The unrest began with workers' strikes in May, escalating into highway blockades that severed connection to La Paz and El Alto, affecting nearly two million inhabitants.

Protesters, including labor unions and former President Evo Morales' supporters, have demanded the rollback of austerity measures and a response to surging living costs. In response, Paz announced a legislative proposal for coordinated police and military operations to dismantle the roadblocks.