Bolivia defense minister resigns as protests deepen political crisis

Wednesday 03 June 2026 - 15:44

By: Dakir Madiha

Bolivia defense minister resigns as protests deepen political crisis

Bolivian Defense Minister Marcelo Salinas resigned on Tuesday after a month of anti-government protests that have blocked major highways and disrupted access to the country's largest urban centers. His departure marks the most significant resignation within President Rodrigo Paz's administration since unrest erupted in early May, intensifying pressure on a government already struggling to contain a widening social and economic crisis.

Government sources confirmed that Ernesto Justiniano, who previously served as vice minister of social defense and controlled substances, will replace Salinas. Justiniano played a key role in restoring anti-drug cooperation between Bolivia and the United States under the Paz administration. His appointment places an experienced security official at the center of efforts to manage growing instability across the country.

The demonstrations, led by labor unions and groups aligned with former leftist president Evo Morales, have severely disrupted supply chains and increased pressure on the government. Protesters are demanding the resignation of Paz, who took office in November 2025 and ended nearly two decades of left-wing rule. They also oppose austerity measures and are calling for action to address rising prices for food, fuel and medicines.

What began as a workers' strike in May has evolved into widespread road blockades that have cut access to La Paz and El Alto, neighboring cities with a combined population of around two million people. The disruptions have triggered shortages of essential goods, reduced oxygen supplies to hospitals and pushed prices higher nationwide. By the end of May, at least seven people had been killed and 120 others arrested in connection with the unrest.

In response to the deteriorating situation, Bolivia's Congress approved measures last week that make it easier for Paz to declare a state of emergency and deploy the military to restore order. Some opposition lawmakers warned that greater military involvement could further inflame tensions. Economic losses linked to the protests are estimated at more than $50 million per day, adding to concerns about the country's financial stability.

Despite a series of concessions, including the repeal of a controversial land mortgage law and a 50% reduction in his own salary, Paz has failed to calm the protest movement. The Bolivian Workers' Center, rural unions and mining organizations remain mobilized. Their demands now extend beyond the original grievances to include wage increases, labor reforms and the president's resignation. Paz recently warned that Bolivia was approaching a critical moment and said those refusing dialogue would face legal consequences.