Bolivia’s Top Court Blocks Evo Morales from Running for Office Again
In a landmark decision, Bolivia’s constitutional court has ruled that former President Evo Morales is ineligible to run for office again, intensifying the nation’s political divide. Morales, who served as president from 2006 until 2019, had hoped to represent his MAS (Movement for Socialism) party in the upcoming 2025 elections, challenging his former ally-turned-political rival, President Luis Arce.
Two-Term Limit Cited in Decision
Last week, Bolivia’s constitutional court affirmed a two-term limit for presidents, ruling that no candidate can serve more than two terms in office, whether consecutive or non-consecutive. Morales’ first two terms were followed by a third term, made possible by a court exception after a constitutional reform. In 2019, Morales ran for a fourth term, but after a disputed election result and widespread unrest, he fled the country. Following his departure, Luis Arce was elected in 2020, marking a shift within the MAS party.
“New Era in Bolivian Politics,” Opposition Says
“This ruling signals a new era for Bolivian politics,” opposition lawmaker Marcelo Pedrazas remarked. “The 2025 election will be the first in years without Evo Morales as a candidate.”
Morales’ Legal Team Denounces Decision as Politically Driven
Morales’ lawyer, Orlando Ceballos, criticized the ruling as politically biased, suggesting it aimed to weaken Morales’ influence and discredit the MAS party. “Their goal is clear—disqualify Evo and marginalize MAS,” Ceballos said during a radio interview. He also announced plans to bring the issue before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.
Rising Tensions Between Morales and Arce
In recent months, the tension between Morales and Arce has escalated, as Morales supporters have organized protests, including roadblocks and even the occupation of military bases. Morales has called for dialogue with Arce’s administration but also held a hunger strike, protesting what he sees as political persecution.
Political Turmoil in Congress
On Friday, tensions spilled into Bolivia’s Congress as Morales’ supporters disrupted proceedings, shouting and throwing flowers at the vice president before Arce’s scheduled annual address. This forced Arce to relocate and deliver his speech from the presidential palace instead.
The recent court ruling, combined with the power struggle between Morales and Arce, highlights the complexities of Bolivia’s political landscape as the country heads toward its next presidential election. The ban on Morales could reshape Bolivian politics and influence the future of the MAS party’s leadership.
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