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Evo Morales Returns to Bolivia, Reigniting Political Tensions

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. ns-to-bolivia-reigniting-political-tensions.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 16:32 GMT by Toronto Star
      Locales:

CHAPARE, Bolivia - February 19th, 2026 - Nearly six years after a tumultuous exit from power and a period of exile, Evo Morales, the former president of Bolivia, has made a dramatic reappearance in his traditional stronghold of Chapare, reigniting tensions within the deeply polarized nation. Morales, who fled Bolivia in late 2019 amidst widespread protests and accusations of electoral fraud, resurfaced on Wednesday, addressing a fervent crowd of supporters and unequivocally stating his intent to challenge the current government, which he continues to characterize as "fascist".

Morales's re-emergence follows an extended period of silence and speculation regarding his whereabouts, fueling anxieties and bolstering support amongst his base. The circumstances surrounding his return are complex, marked by accusations of illegal entry into Bolivian territory following a brief period of asylum in Mexico. Though initially granted refuge in Mexico, Morales reportedly entered Bolivia covertly, a move vehemently condemned by the current administration as a provocation.

The political crisis initially erupted in October 2019, following a presidential election marred by allegations of irregularities. International observers, including the Organization of American States (OAS), raised serious concerns regarding the vote count and transparency of the process. These concerns triggered widespread protests, demanding Morales' resignation and an audit of the election results. Morales ultimately resigned on November 10th, 2019, after losing the support of the military and facing mounting pressure from opposition groups.

The subsequent power vacuum was filled by Jeanine Anez, who assumed the role of interim president. Anez's government immediately initiated investigations into Morales and his allies, alleging involvement in fraud, terrorism, and sedition - charges Morales consistently denies, labeling them politically motivated persecution. These allegations have complicated any potential for national reconciliation and continue to be a significant obstacle to resolving the political deadlock.

Chapare, the remote coca-growing region where Morales first appeared, is a strategically important area and a traditional base of support for the former president and his Movement for Socialism (MAS) party. The region's coca farmers have historically been loyal to Morales, who implemented policies aimed at protecting their livelihoods and recognizing coca as a legitimate crop. Morales's return to Chapare is a clear signal that he intends to mobilize his base and reassert his political influence.

Looking ahead to the planned elections, originally scheduled for June 2020 but repeatedly delayed due to political instability, the situation remains precarious. While new elections were finally held in late 2025, the results were fiercely contested, and the current president, a moderate from a splinter group of the MAS party, governs with a slim majority. The specter of Morales looms large, with many speculating about his potential candidacy in future elections, despite legal challenges to his eligibility based on term limits.

Several factors contribute to the enduring political division. Deep-seated social and economic inequalities, coupled with historical grievances related to indigenous rights and resource control, have created fertile ground for polarization. The country's significant coca-growing industry also plays a crucial role, with conflicting views on its legality and regulation. The legacy of Morales's sixteen years in power - a period marked by significant economic growth but also increasing authoritarian tendencies - continues to shape the political landscape.

Furthermore, external influences have played a part in the crisis. Allegations of foreign interference in Bolivian politics have surfaced, with accusations leveled at both regional powers and international actors. The OAS audit of the 2019 election, while initially welcomed, became a source of controversy, with Morales supporters claiming it was biased and politically motivated.

The situation in Bolivia remains fluid and volatile. Morales's reappearance has undoubtedly raised the stakes, potentially exacerbating existing tensions and complicating efforts to achieve a lasting political solution. Whether he will be able to effectively challenge the current government and mobilize sufficient support for a political comeback remains to be seen, but his return has undeniably injected a new level of uncertainty into Bolivia's already fraught political landscape.