BOLIVIA’S political crisis has deepened as protests led to the resignation of two government ministers.

Defence Minister Marcelo Salinas and Education Minister Beatriz Garcia quit on the 33rd day of protests and road blockades demanding the resignation of the country’s right-wing President Rodrigo Paz.

The demonstrations led by the Central Obrera Boliviana (COB) and peasant organisations in the department of La Paz continue to reject the government’s economic policies and are calling for President Paz to leave office.

According to sources, both ministers stepped down after refusing to sign a decree establishing a “state of exception.” 

The government is reportedly considering the measure to authorise military intervention against more than 90 road blockades registered across eight regions.

Mr Salinas had headed the Defence Ministry since November 2025. He will be replaced by Ernesto Justiniano.

Local media reports say Mr Justiniano, previously Bolivia’s top anti-drugs official, was appointed to lead an intervention in the Tropic of Cochabamba, a political stronghold of former president Evo Morales. 

The reports also suggest the appointment was made following consultations with the US embassy.

No official explanation for the education minister’s departure was provided, and the government has not announced a successor.