Bolivian Political Tensions Escalate Amid Allegations of Violence
The Bolivian government has condemned an alleged violent attack by supporters of former President Evo Morales on Sunday in Ventilla, El Alto, resulting in injuries to several individuals, including journalists. Government Minister Eduardo del Castillo accused Morales of inciting violence, stating that the former president's actions are leading to bloodshed in Bolivia. Health Minister María Renée Castro reported a higher injury toll, claiming eight people were hurt during the incident.
Morales, however, refuted these allegations, asserting that his mobilization efforts are peaceful and blaming the violence on “shock groups” organized by the current government. He called for international support to ensure the protection of their rights and accused the government of using paramilitary groups to instigate violence against his supporters. This incident underscores the ongoing conflict between Morales and President Luis Arce, particularly as Morales prepares for a potential run in the 2025 elections.
Morales Claims Government Plans to Eliminate Him
In a recent interview, Evo Morales alleged that the Arce administration has devised four plans to thwart his political ambitions, including the possibility of assassination. He expressed that the government aims to imprison him or disqualify him through legal actions related to drug trafficking. Morales believes that his radical stance against corruption poses a threat to the current government, which he claims is corrupt itself.
Leading a significant march known as the “March to Save Bolivia,” Morales is rallying support from thousands of followers as they make their way to La Paz. The government has labeled this march as the “March of Death,” accusing Morales of attempting a coup against Arce. Morales has reported receiving threats, including being sent bulletproof vests by police and military personnel, heightening fears for his safety as he leads the march.
Call for Unity Amidst Political Division
As tensions rise, Morales has called for unity within the Movement Towards Socialism (MAS) party, which is currently divided into factions. He plans to initiate a hunger strike following the march to demand recognition of his candidacy for the presidency, despite a Constitutional Court ruling against it. If his demands are not met, Morales and his supporters have threatened to initiate nationwide road blockades starting September 30.
The ongoing feud between Morales and Arce reflects deeper issues within Bolivian politics, with accusations flying back and forth regarding responsibility for the country’s economic struggles and governance. Morales, who served as president from 2006 to 2019, continues to be a polarizing figure in Bolivian politics, with his supporters rallying behind him as he challenges the current administration.
