PROTESTERS demanding the resignation of right-wing Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz have been attacked by police firing tear-gas canisters.

Dozens of protesters were arrested as road blockades continue to paralyse the Andean nation.

The renewed clashes in the central city of Cochabamba erupted after Mr Paz signed a measure that could pave the way for a government crackdown on the demonstrations that have rocked Bolivia over the past five weeks, disrupting transport and causing shortages of food, fuel and medical supplies.

Bolivia’s national workers’ union, peasant farmers and indigenous groups from the highlands have responded to the president’s scrapping of fuel subsidies by setting up 90 blockades on key routes nationwide, effectively isolating major cities, especially La Paz, the seat of government, and neighbouring El Alto. 

Workers battered by rising inflation and low wages accuse Mr Paz of favouring big business rather than working-class and peasant communities.

A report published at the weekend by the independent public ombudsman said that, from May 1 to June 2, the unrest had resulted in 10 deaths, 37 injuries and 365 arrests. 

On Monday, the president signed legislation that eases the government’s ability to impose a state of emergency that would suspend constitutional rights and empower the military to restore order and clear the blockades. 

“This law is to protect the majority of the country from the narcoterrorism that is instigating the protests,” Mr Paz said in a national address after signing the law.

“I extend my hand to the social organisations that have legitimate demands and reiterate my willingness to engage in dialogue.”