Bolivian journalists injured, harassed by anti-government protesters

Bogotá, May 21, 2026–Bolivian authorities must thoroughly investigate violent attacks on journalists covering a wave of anti-government demonstrations, including against cameraman Hugo Machicado of private broadcaster Gigavision, and hold those responsible to account, the Committee to Protect Journalists said Thursday.

On Monday, Machicado was injured in the legs by shrapnel from dynamite detonated by protesters in the capital La Paz who are demanding the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. Machicado was evacuated on a stretcher to a hospital where he was treated and released, according to the National Press Association (ANP).

“The Bolivian government must ensure that journalists covering protests are protected by minimum safety guarantees,” said Cristina Zahar, CPJ’s Latin America program coordinator, in São Paulo. “Those responsible for acts of violence against media professionals should be identified and held accountable.”  

Local outlets reported that at least 10 journalists were slightly injured as they covered clashes between protesters and the police in La Paz and in the adjacent city of El Alto. In some cases, the demonstrators accosted journalists who were trying to film or interview them.

The ANP and seven other Bolivian press organizations published a joint statement saying that nothing justifies violence against media workers. The Ministry of the Presidency also denounced the attacks, saying a free press is fundamental for democracy and that journalists’ integrity must be respected, especially during protests.