In a speech marking Bolivia's 199th independence anniversary, President Luis Arce revealed plans for national referenda on critical issues facing the country. Arce proposed votes on the removal of fuel subsidies and the constitutionality of presidential reelections as a means to address economic challenges and political uncertainties.
The proposal to eliminate fuel subsidies comes amidst protests by truckers and citizens over diesel scarcity, exacerbated by Bolivia's heavy reliance on imported fuel. The government's financial strain from subsidizing fuel imports has pushed Bolivia to the brink of bankruptcy, with energy analysts highlighting the unsustainable nature of the current system.
