Bolivia’s Evo Morales: Supporters Accused of Hostage-Taking AmidRoad Blocks

In a developing and critical political climate, Bolivia’s Foreign Ministry leveled serious charges against supporters of former President Evo Morales. The ministry accused them of taking over 200 soldiers hostage in the central province of Chapare. This comes at a time when protesters have been blocking roads for weeks to prevent Morales’ arrest.

Foreign Ministry’s Accusations

The ministry stated on Saturday that three military units were "assaulted by irregular groups," and that the assailants seized over 200 soldiers along with weapons and ammunition. While the ministry is open to dialogue with all sectors within the country, it warns against maintaining the process while the current hostage situation persists.

Meanwhile, Morales recently urged his supporters to pause the road closures and instead join a hunger strike to facilitate negotiations.

The Case Against Morales

Morales, who served as Bolivia’s first Indigenous president from 2006 to 2019, has faced allegations originating from a 15-year-old girl he had a relationship with in 2016. He is accused of rape, human trafficking, and human smuggling. Morales has denied these charges and refused to testify in court.

Conflicting Stance

The tension escalated further after Morales reportedly survived an assassination attempt when unidentified men opened fire on his car. This claim was made not long after clashes erupted between security forces and Morales supporters.

Impact and Onward Action

The situation in Bolivia highlights a growing political divide and a struggle for leadership within the left-wing MAS party. The current government beefed up security efforts to clear the roadblocks, leading to injuries and arrests on both sides.

Amidst these developments, it is crucial to follow the latest updates from trustworthy sources. Stay informed on the evolving situation as it affects the constitutional crisis and Bolivia’s overall political stability.