"Thousands of Bolivians have taken to the streets in cities such as the capital, La Paz, angry about the government's recent crackdown on indigenous protesters who opposed a planned highway through a nature reserve.

The demonstrations took place Wednesday, three days after riot police fired tear gas at activists who have spent the past month marching from the city of Trinidad toward the capital to protest the roadway. The police crackdown, in the country's Yucumo area, has led to the resignation of four Bolivian officials, including the defense and interior ministers.

Observers say the fallout from the crackdown has become a challenge for President Evo Morales, who this week announced the suspension of the $415-million construction project until a referendum is held in the two provinces the road will link. Morales also was critical of the crackdown and he promised an investigation."

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Bolivians March Against Police Crackdown on Indigenous Protesters (Voice of America News 9/28)
Bolivians march en masse to protest Morales government’s crackdown on indigenous protesters (AP 9/28)