In pictures: Bolivian protests

1 of 8 Bolivia's political capital La Paz has been hit by protests demanding the nationalisation of the energy industry.

2 of 8 Many of the protesters are indigenous people from poorer highland areas.

3 of 8 Protesters blocked roads with stones as they marched towards the city centre.

4 of 8 The demonstrators, who include teachers, students and miners, also used bonfires as barricades.

5 of 8 The latest protests have been mostly peaceful, but police are ready to use tear gas.

6 of 8 President Carlos Mesa has accused the protesters of preventing Congress from discussing autonomy for wealthier eastern regions of the country.

7 of 8 The president says groups behind the protest are trying to destabilise the country.

8 of 8 But many feel Mr Mesa has betrayed them by giving too much ground to multinational energy companies.