The session of the Municipal Council of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, scheduled for this Sunday, ended marked by violence. Opposition councilors were attacked by a mob at the entrance to the legislative building, the group was composed of UCS activists, the party of Mayor Fernández. The violence forced the councilors to hold the session at an alternate venue, yet they managed to form the new board.
The attacks included shoving, chair blows, firecrackers, and even breaking glass. Councilwoman Lola Terrazas's vehicle was damaged by the protesters, and injuries to the hands and arms of several councilors were also reported. Silvana Mucarzel, outgoing president of the Council, denounced that they were surrounded and claimed that their right to perform their duties was violated.
Israel Alcócer, from UCS, was elected as the new president of the Municipal Council for the 2025-2026 term. The vice presidency was assigned to José Alberti, from Comunidad Autonómica, and Silvana Mucarzel was appointed as secretary, who continues to perform her duties despite her expulsion from UCS. The session took place at Casona I, with a regulatory quorum, seven main councilors participated in the deliberation.
From outside, the mob attempted to force their way in, launching firecrackers and trying to violently break down the door. Officials and authorities used furniture to block the access. Amid the chaos, Mucarzel managed to present her management report and then the new board was voted on, which was approved unanimously.
Alcócer thanked the support received and promised a management focused on institutionalism, saying his priority will be to oversee without political pressures. He also denounced that Mayor Fernández tried to prevent the session by all means and mentioned Luciano Negrete and Alejandro Parada as instigators. “We had to face criminal acts promoted from the Mayor's Office,” he declared.
The day did not end with the vote because once the session was over, new attempts of forced entry were recorded. The protesters did not achieve their goal, but caused more damage. Destruction was reported inside and outside the alternate venue, Alcócer lamented that the Police did not respond despite the calls.
Silvana Mucarzel denounced that she requested police protection in advance, saying she went on Sunday morning to formally request guarantees. However, when the opposition councilors arrived, there was no police presence. Instead, they found the vigil organized by UCS, the situation quickly escalated into aggression.
Does the Mayor fear oversight?
