Bolivia has seen violent clashes between security forces and supporters of former President Evo Morales, who marched into La Paz after a six-day protest over the country’s severe economic crisis.

Demonstrators, some carrying dynamite and slingshots, faced riot police and demanded President Rodrigo Paz’s resignation as tear gas and explosions filled the capital.

The unrest, including nationwide rallies and roadblocks, has caused major shortages of food, fuel, and medical supplies, becoming the biggest challenge of Paz’s presidency so far.

Paz blames Morales for encouraging the protests to destabilize his government, while several Latin American countries and the United States have backed his efforts to restore order, Al-Jazeera has reported.

Morales, who denies allegations of misconduct involving a minor and claims they are politically motivated, has directed the movement while evading arrest.