Strikers Against Bolivian Regime Routed by Tanks

Army tanks rolled into the streets today and soldiers fired shots in the air and threw tear gas canisters to disperse miners and other striking workers who are trying to oust Bolivia’s first popularly elected president in two decades.

The military mobilization came a day after at least 10,000 miners blocked the streets of La Paz for seven hours, detonating sticks of dynamite, halting traffic and forcing businesses to close their doors.

The strike, in its 13th day, has shut down many factories and mines, intercity transportation, long-distance communication, businesses and hospitals.

Wage Hikes Demanded

Strikers are demanding immediate wage increases and the resignation of President Hernan Siles Zuazo, who took over in October, 1982, as Bolivia’s first popularly elected president in 18 years.

The general strike grew out of harsh economic measures introduced by the government on Feb. 9. These include an 81% currency devaluation and a 450% increase in the price of food, gasoline, transportation and utilities.

Witnesses said tanks, soldiers and national guardsmen armed with rifles and tear gas canisters were posted on roads leading to La Paz and near the presidential palace.

“The military and police presence responds to the legitimate right of a democratic government forced to preserve the public order,” Information Minister Mario Rueda Pena said.

Law Violations Charged

He said that miners were violating the law and preventing the free circulation of traffic.

Rueda Pena distinguished the troop mobilizations from operations that took place in Bolivia under military regimes.

“We are intent on preserving the democratic process, contrary to the desires of a radical labor leadership that would like to prevent the realization of elections,” he said.

General elections are scheduled for July 14. The Labor Confederation has rejected the elections and called instead for the installation of a socialist worker’s government.