Bolivia’s President Luis Arce has announced a reduction in bureaucratic lunch breaks and in-person schooling, alongside halving state vehicle usage to tackle a severe fuel shortage. The country is addressing a deep economic crisis worsened by protests and inflation. Key steps include prioritizing fuel for agriculture and increasing virtual classes while maintaining military oversight to combat fuel smuggling.
In response to a significant fuel shortage, Bolivian President Luis Arce has declared measures that include the elimination of lunch breaks for government employees and the reduction of in-person schooling. This initiative aims to alleviate the ongoing economic crisis that has prompted widespread protests and blockades affecting fuel delivery.
Bolivia’s economy has been struggling since 2023, leading to a decrease in fuel imports due to diminished revenues from gas sales, a crucial foreign currency source until 2020. President Arce asserts, “Bolivia is not bankrupt… it has an economy that continues to generate public investment.” He, alongside his cabinet, presented this plan during a televised address.
Key measures comprise reducing the government vehicle fleet utilization by fifty percent, increasing virtual class offerings to minimize travel, and instituting a work schedule for public servants from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm without breaks to alleviate lunch hour congestion. Moreover, agricultural activities will receive priority in fuel distribution, alongside heightened military oversight to prevent fuel smuggling.
The nation is currently experiencing its highest inflation rate in 16 years, coupled with a growing fiscal deficit. President Arce noted, “The problem our country faces today is very simple, it is the lack of temporary dollar liquidity.” His political future remains uncertain, as he has not confirmed intentions for reelection in August of this year, while former President Evo Morales appears to be seeking a political return despite facing legal issues regarding his previous term.
The Bolivian government’s recent measures to address the pressing fuel shortage reflect an urgent response to a prolonged economic crisis characterized by protests and inflation. By reducing bureaucratic lunch breaks, cutting public vehicle usage, and prioritizing fuel for agriculture, President Luis Arce aims to stabilize the economy while navigating challenges such as fiscal deficits and potential re-election uncertainties. Such actions illustrate the delicate balancing act of governance amid economic distress.
Original Source: business.inquirer.net
