Fuel Crisis Deepens Ahead of Bolivia’s Presidential Runoff
The fuel crisis in Bolivia has intensified just days before this weekend’s presidential runoff, with hydrocarbon stocks dwindling. Hydrocarbons Minister Alejandro Gallardo revealed on Tuesday that the country has sufficient diesel for only one day and gasoline for three days, reports 24brussels.
This crisis stems from a severe shortage of US dollars needed for fuel imports. Bolivia requires between US$55 and US$60 million but has struggled to secure the funds in recent weeks, causing significant supply disruptions.
While two ships carrying fuel are anticipated to arrive between October 20-23, the government cautions that normal distribution may not resume until after the elections, contingent on favorable weather and tide conditions for unloading.
Despite the crisis, the government has assured the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) that it will secure a sufficient supply to facilitate the electoral process.
Gallardo rejected allegations from presidential candidate Rodrigo Paz Pereira, labeling them as a “political attack” aimed at manipulating public sentiment ahead of the elections. His comments come as Armin Dorgathen, president of the state oil company YPFB, has fled following an arrest warrant.
“We need around $55 to $60 million per week, but we currently do not have these resources,” Gallardo stated at a press conference, highlighting previous disbursements of $41 million, $45 million, and $35 million over the last three weeks as contributors to current shortages.
“We are in quite a complicated situation with diesel; we barely have one day’s supply,” he acknowledged, affirming that YPFB is striving daily to secure foreign currency through various channels.
Paz has accused President Luis Arce Catacora of intentionally withholding fuel to incite panic among voters before the runoff, demanding the release of stored fuel and threatening impeachment proceedings should he win. He also alleged that Arce has formed agreements with his opponent, former President Jorge Tuto Quiroga.
The ongoing fuel crisis has resulted in extensive queues at gas stations and an increase in staple food prices across Bolivia, creating further challenges for citizens as they approach the pivotal election.
