La Paz Protest Turns Violent: 26 Arrested, Money Distribution Fuels Investigation

La Paz Protests: 26 Arrested, Money Distribution Allegations Surface La Paz, Bolivia – On Thursday, May 29, 2025, Bolivian authorities arrested at least 26 individuals during a protest near the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE). The demonstration, described as "evista," involved clashes between protesters and police. A key development in the event was the apprehension of a person distributing money to participants. This raised immediate questions about the financing of the protest and the potential involvement of external actors. Vice Minister of Internal Regime and Police, Jhonny Aguilera, stated in a press briefing, "One of those arrested was distributing money in the middle of the march, which we believe is the source of financing for the measure." The video from BOLIVIA TV shows Aguilera speaking and footage of the protest itself, including scenes of tense standoffs between protesters and police in riot gear. The arrests highlight concerns about potential unrest and the need for thorough investigations into the financing of political demonstrations in Bolivia. The incident underscores the complexities of maintaining order and ensuring fair elections in a politically charged environment. Further investigations are underway to determine the full extent of the funding and the identities of those involved.