Crisis deepens, and the Government lacks the capacity to respond | Crisis se ahonda y Gobierno sin capacidad de respuesta

By El Diario:

After 18 years of the “masista” model

  • The fuel shortage, dollar scarcity, and roadblocks—which have left Cochabamba isolated due to internal political disputes—have, in sixteen days, caused food shortages and price increases across the country.
The sixteen-day roadblock maintained by radical groups from the Movement for Socialism, followers of Evo Morales, is causing significant losses to the country’s productive sector.

The economic and political crisis Bolivia has faced in recent months has deepened significantly, leaving Luis Arce’s government in a precarious position and revealing its lack of capacity to implement an effective response.

The economy now confronts serious challenges. The shortage of fuel and other essential resources has generated widespread discontent. The policies implemented by the government have not managed to alleviate these issues, leading to a growing perception of an inability to tackle the crisis.

The roadblock, which reached its sixteenth day yesterday, has left the department of Cochabamba isolated from the rest of the country. This situation is driving up food prices, such as chicken, which now costs 12 bolivianos per kilo in Santa Cruz and between Bs 23 and Bs 24.50 per kilo in La Paz.

Adding to this is the scarcity of rice, sugar, oil, and vegetables, which have practically disappeared from stores and markets; when they are available, their prices are prohibitively high.

Moreover, the fuel shortage worsens daily, especially in the central cities, where long lines of vehicles have led to increased transportation fares as public transport drivers cite the higher cost of gasoline, now priced at Bs 6.80.

Regarding the lack of gasoline and diesel, the Port Authority of Arica confirmed that three ships have not unloaded fuel bound for Bolivia for several weeks.

The actual reason these ships remain at the port is the government’s dollar shortage to cover the import costs.

What draws attention and raises questions among citizens is that, over 18 years in power, the Movement for Socialism (MAS) managed over 55 billion dollars, and yet Bolivia is now in crisis.

Adding to this is the escalation of political violence, including incidents like the alleged attack on Evo Morales and the recent attempted coup by a former Army commander.

Protests and demonstrations have become more frequent and violent, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction. The lack of dialogue and repression of protests has worsened the situation, creating an environment of instability and fear.

The judicial system and corruption are additional factors worsening the crisis. Reports of corruption within the government and perceptions of a biased judiciary have eroded confidence in the country’s institutions. The lack of transparency and impunity has generated a sense of hopelessness among citizens.

The international community has also expressed concern. Organizations such as the OAS and the UN have urged the government to take measures to restore peace and stability. However, responses have been insufficient and, most times, delayed.

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