Date: June 3, 2026 l By James Emmanuel
LA PAZ, Bolivia — Bolivia’s Defence Minister Marcelo Salinas has resigned following weeks of sustained nationwide protests that have paralysed major cities, disrupted supply chains, and intensified political pressure on President Rodrigo Paz’s administration.
The resignation marks the latest high-level departure from the government as Bolivia grapples with its most serious wave of unrest since the administration took office in November 2025 after nearly two decades of left-wing rule.
According to government sources, Salinas stepped down amid escalating demonstrations led by labour unions and groups aligned with former President Evo Morales. The protests, which began as labour strikes in May, have since expanded into widespread blockades that have severely restricted movement and access to essential goods in urban centres including La Paz and El Alto.
The unrest has been driven by public anger over austerity measures, rising living costs, and broader economic difficulties affecting households across the country. Protesters have demanded the reversal of government policies and, in some cases, called for President Paz’s resignation.
The crisis has already triggered a series of ministerial exits, with the education and labour portfolios also affected in recent days as the administration struggles to contain the growing unrest.
In response, President Paz has considered stronger security measures, including the possible declaration of a state of emergency that could allow military deployment to restore order. However, the proposal has raised concerns among observers who warn it could further escalate tensions in an already volatile environment.
Government officials maintain that dialogue remains the preferred path forward, but acknowledge that ongoing blockades and shortages of food, fuel, and medicine are placing severe pressure on both the state and the population.
Opposition-aligned groups and protest leaders argue that the government has failed to address worsening economic conditions and accuse it of ignoring the needs of working-class communities. Meanwhile, authorities have described some of the unrest as politically motivated attempts to destabilise the administration.
The resignation of the defence minister underscores the fragility of the current political situation, with analysts warning that continued instability could further weaken governance and deepen Bolivia’s economic and social challenges.
As protests continue with no clear resolution in sight, attention is now focused on whether President Paz can stabilise the situation through negotiation, or whether further resignations and unrest will push the country into an even deeper crisis.