Roadblocks by Morales supporters 'paralyse' Bolivia: Video
Bolivia is facing significant disruptions as supporters of former President Evo Morales have set up roadblocks across the country.
The protests, which began on October 14, have led to fuel shortages and soaring prices, paralysing daily life and commerce.
The roadblocks were initiated by Morales' loyalists in response to his potential arrest over allegations of abusing a minor. The blockades have expanded from four initial sites to 18, primarily around Cochabamba, Morales' political stronghold.
Protesters have targeted key routes, including those connecting Cochabamba to Sucre and Santa Cruz, effectively cutting off major transportation arteries.
"If you don't work, you don't eat," said Santos, 25, who had been waiting for almost six hours to fill up told AFP. "It's a total loss, especially for us who are on public transport."
Evo Morales, Bolivia's first Indigenous leader who served from 2006 to 2019, is currently under investigation for rape, human trafficking, and smuggling, stemming from an alleged relationship with a 15-year-old girl, with whom he is accused of fathering a daughter in 2016.
Initially, the demonstrations aimed to prevent Morales' potential arrest, but they have since evolved into protests against the economic policies of President Luis Arce's government.
