Bolivia Faces Critical Presidential Elections Amid Economic Crisis
LA PAZ, Bolivia — With former President Evo Morales out of the race, ten candidates are set to compete in Bolivia’s presidential elections scheduled for August 17. The ruling party is divided and facing the potential loss of power after nearly two decades, amid the country’s worst economic turmoil in 40 years that is fueling growing social discontent.
A recent ruling by the Constitutional Court prohibits any citizen from seeking a third term, disqualifying Morales. The ex-president, who held office from 2006 to 2019, also lost leadership of the ruling Movement for Socialism (MAS), a party he helped found. Despite this, Morales continues to assert his influence, and his exit from the political scene could heighten the already tense atmosphere. His supporters have declared a boycott of the upcoming elections.
In a complex landscape of Latin America, Bolivia stands out as a deeply polarized nation grappling with significant crises. This history of political instability and street protests could shape the upcoming elections, according to analysts.
Morales’ push for reelection in 2019 resulted in widespread protests, leading to his resignation amid accusations of election fraud.
For the first time, MAS is no longer the frontrunner and is entering the elections fractured into three factions. Current President Luis Arce has opted not to run again due to a significant drop in popularity, instead backing his government minister Eduardo del Castillo, a latecomer in the race.
The center-right opposition is also divided, presenting seven candidates in the elections.
Left-Wing Candidates
One of the favorites for the left is Andrónico Rodríguez, a 36-year-old senator and ally of Morales. He is running for the Alianza Popular, an offshoot of MAS. Analysts suggest that Rodríguez, with a background in political science and close ties to Morales, could potentially bridge the divide within MAS, although his candidacy is pending due to a legal challenge.
Arce has accused Rodríguez of blocking vital legislation on Morales’ orders. Critics argue that, despite his youth, Rodríguez represents more of the same leadership that has led Bolivia into disarray.
Center and Right-Wing Candidates
Among the opposition are well-known figures such as former president Jorge Tuto Quiroga and businessman Samuel Doria Medina. Both men were instrumental in liberal reforms during the 1990s that transformed Bolivia into a gas-producing nation, though the industry has since suffered due to a lack of investment following nationalization under Morales.
Quiroga, a former vice president, and Doria Medina, an entrepreneur with a history in politics, are both vying for the “anti-MAS” vote and plan to dismantle the failed economic model established by Morales.
Another candidate in the mix is Manfred Reyes Villa, the current mayor of Cochabamba, who has a significant political track record in his region.
Arce has labeled the opposition as a "fascist right" aimed at dismantling the state and reverting to neoliberal policies.
In addition to the major players, six other candidates, including Eva Copa, mayor of El Alto, have joined the race, representing a mosaic of political aspirations.
Bolivia’s Economic Landscape
Bolivia ended 2024 with an inflation rate of nearly 10%, its highest in decades. The International Monetary Fund forecasts inflation of 15.8% this year, exacerbating challenges for families as food prices continue to soar.
The current economic crisis began two years ago, fueled by a drop in gas exports that led to fuel shortages and inflation. Critics accuse the MAS of mismanagement, suggesting that past economic advancements have been undermined by waste and corruption.
As the presidential and legislative elections approach, the outcome could dictate Bolivia’s future direction. However, analysts warn that widespread fragmentation among voters may hinder the emergence of a strong government needed to implement essential economic reforms.
The call for unity is urgent, yet it appears largely absent as Bolivia grapples with dramatic setbacks following years of progress. The combination of international economic pressures and poor policy decisions has left many Bolivians on edge as they prepare to cast their votes in a deeply divided political landscape.
