Bolivian Protesters Issue 72-Hour Ultimatum Amidst Economic Crisis

La Paz Protest: Bolivian Unions and Medical Workers March Against Economic Crisis La Paz, Bolivia – On May 28, 2025, thousands of Bolivians took to the streets of La Paz in a major protest against the escalating economic crisis. The demonstration, which included trade unions (gremiales), medical professionals, and other sectors, highlighted widespread concerns over rising prices and shortages of essential goods. The protesters marched through the city center, carrying empty pots and pans, a symbolic representation of their empty pockets and the inability to afford basic necessities. "We're going to go on strike," warned one protester, Tono Sinani, a representative of the gremiales in El Alto. "We can't even afford basic things like oil. We've been told to wait, but we've had enough." The marchers presented a 72-hour ultimatum to the Bolivian government, demanding immediate action to address the economic crisis. Their concerns included the high cost of food, fuel, and medicine, as well as the scarcity of US dollars. Medical workers, in particular, highlighted the lack of essential supplies and equipment, impacting their ability to provide adequate healthcare. Fernando Romero, an executive at SIRMES La Paz, stated, "There are no medicines, no surgical equipment, no laboratory supplies. We are tied hand and foot. The parallel dollar exchange rate prevents us from bidding and purchasing necessary supplies." The government has yet to respond to the protesters' demands. The situation remains tense, with the threat of a nationwide strike looming large. The protest serves as a stark reminder of the profound economic challenges facing Bolivia and the determination of its citizens to seek solutions.