A representative of the Red Ponchos from the Omasuyos province of La Paz warned on Monday that the mobilizations have the sole objective of removing the government from power. They assert that the marches advancing toward La Paz are not peaceful.
The leader questioned the lack of prior contact between the authorities and the mobilized sectors and stated that the conflict could have been avoided through dialogue. He indicated that the government did not speak with social organizations or their representatives before the escalation of protests and blockades.
The representative also asserted that the situation would have been much worse if the entire Omasuyos province had actively participated in the mobilizations. “If the Omasuyos province had been involved, woe to them. What would the police and military have been doing right now?” he stated.
The leader affirmed that the protest seeks to force the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz and anticipated confrontational measures in downtown La Paz. “This is not a peaceful march. This is a confrontation to oust the government. We are going straight into action,” he declared.
This Monday, the seat of government is besieged by marches, blockades, and demonstrations by groups aligned with Morales, peasant organizations, and labor unions, all marching toward Plaza Murillo to demand the president’s resignation.
Tensions have escalated in recent hours due to government reports of armed individuals carrying dynamite at some of the demonstrations.
Authorities have warned that any act of violence or possession of weapons will be prosecuted.
