Against the backdrop of a bitter power struggle between former Bolivian President Evo Morales and incumbent head of state Luis Arce, protests by Morales supporters continued to escalate on Friday. A group of armed men stormed a barracks in the coca-growing region of Chapare and took “about twenty soldiers hostage,” according to the Defense Ministry.
The attackers also took weapons and ammunition under their control, the military said. A video released by Bolivian media shows 16 soldiers surrounded by protesters armed with sharpened sticks. “The Cacique Maraza regiment has been taken over by Tipnis activists,” says one of the men in uniform in the video. “They have cut off our water and electricity and are holding us hostage.” Tipnis is a stronghold of Morales supporters.
Supporters want to prevent Morales’ arrest
Since mid-October, allies of the ex-president have been blocking roads in various parts of Bolivia in an attempt to prevent his arrest. The left-wing politician is currently under investigation over allegations of raping a 15-year-old during his term in office in 2015. The ex-president denies the allegations, describing the accusations as an attempt to prevent him from returning to power.
Authorities say at least 70 people, including 61 police officers, have been injured in clashes between police and protesters since roadblocks by Morales’ supporters began in mid-October. President Arce called on Wednesday for the immediate lifting of the blockades. According to him, these have so far resulted in economic losses of $1.7 billion and food and fuel shortages.
From popular head of state to political refugee
Morales was Bolivia’s first indigenous president from 2006 to 2019 and was very popular for a long time – until he tried to circumvent the constitution in 2019 and seek a fourth term. Although he won the election, he resigned after violent protests and temporarily fled the country.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
