“This is a warning to all of Bolivia, to anyone who tries to destabilize the democratically elected government,” declared David Callisaya, First Vice President of Fejuve de El Alto. “This strike is a drastic measure we are taking in defense of life, democracy, and the people of El Alto.”
Roadblocks Set at Key Locations: Residents have set up blockades using stones, ropes, mounds of earth, and tires at key points around the city, including the Apacheta road to Copacabana, the Laja road to Desaguadero, and Ballivián Avenue. According to television reports, there are also blockades on Satélite and 6 de Marzo avenues, as well as in San Roque and Faro Murillo.
Strike Response to Failed Coup Attempt: This Wednesday, the then-Army Commander, General Juan José Zúñiga, led an attempted coup that took over Plaza Murillo. Zúñiga and a group of heavily armed soldiers entered the Palacio Quemado for a few minutes after an armored vehicle broke through an open door.
In the evening, the general was apprehended, along with the now-former Navy Commander, Vice Admiral Juan Arnez.
Travel Alert: Despite the roadblocks reported by regional outlets in El Alto, the Road Transitability Map from the ABC and the La Paz Bus Terminal haven’t issued any travel warnings.
It remains unclear whether this pressure measure will continue throughout the day, it’s likely intended to bolster support for President Arce and solidify the narrative surrounding the alleged coup attempt and it has been criticized by other civic leaders in El Alto.
