Evo Morales, Bolivia’s former president, is running for a fourth term despite term limits and criminal charges against him. He claims the charges are politically motivated by rival President Luis Arce. Morales plans to represent a different party as Bolivia faces significant economic challenges, including high inflation and public protests over shortages.
Evo Morales, Bolivia’s former president, has announced his candidacy for a fourth presidential term, challenging the constitutional limit of three terms. Morales, Bolivia’s first indigenous leader, faces pending criminal charges, which he alleges are politically motivated by his former ally-turned-rival, President Luis Arce. On his announcement in Cochabamba, he asserted confidence in his campaign, saying, “We will win.”
At 65, Morales has claimed to be the target of a political maneuver intending to eliminate him. He faces an arrest warrant related to allegations of a sexual relationship with a minor during his presidency, which lasted from 2006 to 2019. His tenure is marked by notable economic advancement; however, his bid for power raised questions, especially following his controversial exit in 2019, which was tied to a significant political crisis.
The Bolivian courts have reaffirmed a two-term limit, which Morales previously navigated through a constitutional amendment. This time, he pledges to represent a different political party, “The Front for Victory,” rather than the left-wing MAS party that he and Arce have both previously represented. Morales’s re-election effort unfolds amid an economic crisis in Bolivia, characterized by soaring inflation and significant public protests against shortages of basic necessities.
Since an arrest warrant was issued in December, Morales has largely remained in Cochabamba, supported by his primarily Indigenous base, who have previously taken action to prevent his arrest. The political landscape remains tense as President Arce has yet to announce if he will pursue re-election, creating uncertainty about the electoral environment for both candidates.
With challenges such as rising prices and a growing fiscal deficit, the political battle between Morales and Arce will significantly impact Bolivia’s stability and recovery from an economic downturn.
Evo Morales’s declaration to run for president again defies constitutional limitations and is compounded by serious legal issues, which he attributes to political adversaries. His bid materializes against a backdrop of severe economic challenges and long-standing political tensions with President Luis Arce. The upcoming elections could significantly influence Bolivia’s future, highlighting the challenges of governance and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
