Food, gasolene shortages reported in cities

LA PAZ (AP) :

Residents in several Bolivian cities are reporting food and gasolene shortages because of protests by supporters of ousted President Evo Morales.

Bolivia’s interim government said Monday that its efforts to ­resupply La Paz face challenges because pro-Morales ­demonstrators have cut off some transport routes.

Blockades around the major city of Santa Cruz have also disrupted commerce. Producers say fruit and vegetables are rotting on trucks that have been unable to reach markets.

The public defender’s office in Bolivia says at least 23 people have been killed in street violence that erupted after a disputed election on October 20.

Morales, Bolivia’s first indigenous president, claimed victory after the vote, but opponents alleged fraud and massive protests began. An international audit concluded there were election irregularities and Morales resigned on November 10.