News Americas, Sucre, Bolivia, Mon. April 18, 2011: Teachers and health workers in Bolivia are continuing their protest for a wage increase.
The protesters have blocked main roads and clashed with police, as they demand a 15 percent pay increase.
The unrest is the worst yet faced by President Evo Morales, who once led similar protests that forced two previous presidents from power.
Police used tear gas to clear the main road south of La Paz, and protesters fought back with stones and slingshots. The government has approved only a 10 percent increase for teachers, soldiers and police, and says it cannot afford any more.
But the union is demanding direct talks with President Morales rather than his ministers.
“The mobilisations will continue, there will be no truce,” COB leader Pedro Montes told reporters.