{{Bolivia’s military chiefs have ordered the dismissal of more than 700 troops who have been protesting to demand better working conditions.}}
The army, navy and air force accused the men of committing acts of sedition and rebellion, and attacking the honour of the armed forces.
The soldiers say the military discriminates against indigenous Bolivians, a claim the military denies.
Protesters are calling for a meeting with President Evo Morales.
The protest began on Tuesday with 500 soldiers, but grew to about 1,000 on Thursday.
Non-commissioned officers and sergeants dressed in camouflage uniforms marched through the capital, La Paz, together with some of their wives and Aymara indigenous leaders who support their demands.
The protesters are demanding reforms so that non-commissioned officers can study to become career officers.
They also want the release of four protest leaders who were dismissed on Monday and say they want more medical benefits on a par with officers.
“It cannot be that they dismiss our brothers for demanding their rights. We will expand the protest if they are not reinstituted,” said indigenous leader Samuel Coarite.
On Wednesday, Defence Minister Ruben Saavedra said Bolivia’s armed forces were changing and that in 2015 enlisted men and sergeants would be able to receive scholarships to study to become officers.
President Morales has so far not spoken publicly about the demonstrations.
{wirestory}
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