"Hundreds of people demonstrated on Friday in Cochabamba, Bolivia, demanding the repeal of Supreme Decree 5503, which introduces emergency economic measures, including the removal of state fuel subsidies and subsequent price increases across multiple sectors. Footage shows protesters gathering outside the Cochabamba congress building, chanting slogans and displaying placards rejecting the decree. Demonstrators blamed newly elected President Rodrigo Paz for the rising cost of living, accusing his administration of failing to honour campaign promises. “We are furious. If he is not capable of governing as president, he should resign, step aside and let someone else govern,” said protester Karina Gomez. The decree has had an immediate impact on the transport sector, triggering what protesters describe as a political, economic and social crisis. “Because fuel is the vital liquid that allows us to move and provide a transport service. Now we are suffering this type of crisis,” said Omar Calisaya, a mototaxi driver affected by the measures. According to the government, Supreme Decree 5503 aims to reduce the fiscal deficit, curb fuel smuggling and protect social programmes. However, critics argue that the elimination of subsidies has led to sharp price hikes, disproportionately affecting workers and low-income households. “What the president is doing is unfair. We trusted his word that he would lower prices, and now, overnight, he makes us raise fares,” Gomez added. Protesters warned that demonstrations could intensify if the decree is not withdrawn in the coming days. “If by Monday that decree has not been repealed, we will escalate to all corresponding actions. A hunger strike, if we have to do it, we will declare a strike,” said Luis Moya, another demonstrator. Meanwhile, the Cochabamba Chamber of Industry, Commerce and Services issued a statement calling for dialogue between the public and private sectors, proposing a negotiation table to address rising prices and mitigate the impact of the measures on the population."