Rodrigo Paz assumed Bolivia’s presidency in November 2025 after defeating a rival in the runoff, ending two decades of Movement for Socialism dominance amid an inherited economic crisis marked by inflation, fuel shortages, and declining exports. His centrist administration has pursued austerity measures, subsidy reductions, and spending cuts to stabilize finances, prompting widespread protests, roadblocks, and demands for resignation that intensified in May 2026. These demonstrations have led to clashes, reported fatalities, salary reductions for officials, and authorization of military intervention alongside consideration of emergency measures. Trader sentiment on his departure reflects the pace of unrest, opposition alignments, and the government’s capacity to contain disruptions before scheduled political tests or institutional deadlines.