Banks close branches in tense Bolivia, diplomats call for calm
Banks in La Paz, Bolivia, have temporarily closed branches amid rising anti-government protests. Demonstrators are calling for President Rodrigo Paz to reverse austerity measures and address living costs, with some demanding his resignation. Diplomatic calls for calm have been issued as the unrest continues to escalate, impacting daily life and access to essential supplies.
- ▪Banks in La Paz closed some branches due to escalating protests against the government.
- ▪Protesters are demanding the reversal of austerity measures and some are calling for President Paz's resignation.
- ▪Roadblocks have been reported, leading to shortages of food, medical supplies, and fuel.
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Banks close branches in tense Bolivia, diplomats call for calmSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxPublished May 20, 2026, 05:38 AMUpdated May 20, 2026, 05:44 AMListenLA PAZ, May 19 - Banks temporarily closed branches in Bolivia's capital La Paz on Tuesday as escalating anti-government unrest sounded alarms and foreign diplomats called for calm.Demonstrations by unions, miners, transport workers and rural groups have grown in recent weeks, pressing centrist President Rodrigo Paz to roll back austerity measures and address rising living costs.Some protesters have called for his resignation, reflecting a broader backlash against his government, which took office in November after nearly two decades of leftist rule.U.S.
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