Bolivia’s Justice Minister resigns amid crisis

Siles announced his resignation as Justice Minister, effective June 17

César Siles resigned as Bolivian Justice Minister effective June 17, citing unfounded rumors and accusations against him. In a letter to President Luis Arce Catacora, the departing official expressed his intent to step down to defend his reputation and avoid destabilizing the government amid Bolivia’s economic crisis and political tensions.

Siles also emphasized his loyalty and unblemished career since entering public service in 2001, including roles as Vice Minister, Attorney General, and Justice Minister since September 2024. His resignation aims to ensure an orderly transition amid road blockades and demands from supporters of former President Evo Morales for his candidacy in the upcoming Aug. 17 elections despite being banned by the Constitution from holding any additional term.

“I have learned of rumors and accusations against me without any basis or proof, which deserve clarification,” said Siles in his note. ”In order to avoid any new pretext from those who insist on perpetuating themselves in power and intend to destabilize the country, affect the governmental management or avoid the general elections, I submit to you (…) my resignation that I ask to be accepted on Tuesday, June 17, 2025,“ he explained.

”In the public positions I held since 2001, when I entered the civil service, I demonstrated capacity, experience, loyalty, commitment, and constant improvement, even more when I was honored as a public servant of free appointment and trust of the highest authorities of the country,“ he further noted.

”They always tried to damage my dignity, honor, and professional trajectory, but they never succeeded. I do not have any investigation against me that has prospered to date,” he went on.