Bolivia faces days of tension due to blockades and social crisis while Colombia prepares for tight elections
Bolivia begins a new month in a critical situation due to numerous road blockades affecting much of the country. The Bolivian Workers' Center (COB) has decided to continue with pressure measures and has refused to participate in the dialogue called by the Catholic Church. Regarding this crisis, Human Rights Watch (HRW) stated that the conflict stems from a lack of trust in the justice system and lamented the tragic death of a child who could not receive medical attention due to the road closures.
The economic impact of these protests is alarming, especially in the fuel sector. In the department of Santa Cruz, civic leaders report that the price of diesel has risen excessively, reaching up to 30 bolivianos per liter in the provinces. On the other hand, the department of Pando is in a state of emergency and risks running out of basic services if the exceptional entry of fuel for its generating plants is not permitted.
To try to resolve this situation, a commission from the central government and the Santa Cruz Governorate is in San Julián negotiating the lifting of the blockades after reaching previous agreements with some sectors. At the same time, the Bolivian Police have asked the public to formally report leaders who use threats and punishments to force people to participate in the mobilizations and road blockades.
The crisis has also led to an increase in violence and situations of extreme vulnerability. A former police chief warned of a dangerous phenomenon of "vigilante justice" after several lynchings were recorded, reflecting desperation in the face of insecurity. Additionally, the story of a blind couple was shared; they were forced to walk along the highway using canes, carrying their child and luggage, as they could find no available transport due to the road cuts.
Internationally, attention is focused on Colombia, where a very tight presidential runoff is expected. According to political scientist Jacobo Grajales from the Sorbonne University, the result will be difficult to predict due to polarization. On June 21, Colombian citizens must choose between the right-wing candidate, Abelardo de la Espriella, and the left-wing candidate, Iván Cepeda.
This collection of news shows a region marked by social and political instability. While Bolivia desperately seeks to restore order and the supply of basic products, Colombia prepares for a democratic decision that will define its immediate future in an environment of high electoral competition.