Indigenous Bolivians demand President Luis Arce's resignation amid accusations of marginalisation: Video
Indigenous Bolivians took protests to the streets on Monday, September 16, and blocked major roads and highways to demand the resignation of President Luis Arce.
The protests, led primarily by the Aymara people, have intensified over the past week, causing significant disruptions in the capital and surrounding regions.
The unrest stems from growing dissatisfaction with President Arce's administration. Protesters accuse the government of neglecting their needs and failing to uphold their rights.
"The government (of Luis Arce) does not take us into account. On the contrary, when we claim or demand something, they beat us with unions, they persecute us, they wage a media war on social media against us, saying that we are supporters of Evo Morales. But this is completely false. What we are asking for are our rights as an Aymara nation," one of the movement's leaders, David Mamani Quispe told AFP.
Many Indigenous communities feel marginalised and believe that their concerns are not being addressed by the current administration. The economic policies of President Arce, who has been in office since November 2020, have been a particular point of contention. Critics argue that his policies have failed to improve the living conditions of the country's poorest citizens.
The protests have also been fueled by political tensions between President Arce and his predecessor, Evo Morales. Morales, who remains a highly influential figure in Bolivian politics, has called for anti-government marches, further escalating the situation.
In a televised address on Sunday, September 15, President Arce accused Morales of attempting to undermine his administration and destabilise the country.
“Enough, Evo!” Arce exclaimed on state TV. “Until now, I have tolerated your attacks and slander in silence. But putting the lives of people at risk is something I cannot tolerate.”
Morales, Bolivia's first Indigenous president, enjoyed widespread popularity until he attempted to bypass the constitution to seek a fourth term in 2019. Although he aims to run again in August 2025, the courts have prohibited him. However, with backing from a faction of his party, he is pushing to overturn the court's decision.
In response to the protests, the Bolivian government has called for dialogue and urged protesters to lift the roadblocks. However, the demonstrators remain steadfast in their demands for President Arce's resignation. The situation remains tense, with no clear resolution in sight.
