EMERGENCY ACTION COMMITTEE (EAC) MEETING - LA PAZ

UNCLAS LA PAZ 001694 SENSITIVE DEPARTMENT FOR DS COMMAND CENTER, DS/IP/WHA, DS/OSAC, S/CT, D, P, M, INR, CA, WHA/EX AND BL E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: AEMR AMGT ASEC CASC BL SUBJECT: EMERGENCY ACTION COMMITTEE (EAC) MEETING - LA PAZ - 05 AUGUST 2008 SENSITIVE BUT UNCLASSIFIED (SBU) - PROTECT ACCORDINGLY ¶1. (SBU) On Tuesday, 05 August 2008, EAC La Paz was convened to review current threat posture and to assess the political situation in preparations for the recall referendum vote scheduled for Sunday, 10 August 2008. The EAC generally agreed that no serious violence or civil unrest is expected prior to 10 August, but depending on the results of the referendum, a greater political divide will ensue thus increasing the chances of greater civil unrest. At present, there is a very tense political environment nationwide. A warden message, was approved and released late Tuesday, 05 August, providing referendum information and guidance to US citizens. This was also forwarded to OSAC Bolivia. ¶2. (SBU) While travel to Bolivia is permitted on 10 August, and American Airlines is still scheduled to fly, transportation (public and private) throughout Bolivia is prohibited without special permission granted by the Government of Bolivia (GOB). Without a special permit, travelers will have a greater difficulty obtaining transportation upon arrival at Bolivian airports. As a result, travel to Bolivia on 10 August is highly discouraged. ¶3. (SBU) In addition to the transportation restrictions, the sale and consumption of alcohol is prohibited from 00:01, Friday (08/08/08) until noon, Monday (08/12/08) to include consumption in private residences. The carrying of firearms, political campaigning, and rights to assemble (i.e., strikes, rallies, manifestations, protests, and marches, etc) are also prohibited during this time frame. Rumors of marches to the US Embassy continue, but it appears unlikely as there is little support (unlike the last minute boost the protesters received prior to the 09 June march with the announcement of political asylum granted to a former senior government official now residing in the US). There was a rumor of a 07 August march, but this now appears very unlikely. ¶4. (SBU) A test of the internal notification cascade system has been updated and will be tested prior to 10 August. In addition, all section/agency heads were instructed to have all USG employees conduct a radio check with MSG Post 1. On Monday, 11 August, if there is civil unrest or a transportation strike (as rumored),employees will not be permitted to drive to or park at the US Embassy. Shuttle service will then be arranged for employees identified to report to work. ¶5. (U) POC is RSO Patrick J. Moore; IVG 547-8300; email: (moorepj@state.gov). Regards. GOLDBERG