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Bolivia on the brink: How a presidential election heralds a political shift

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, October 16th 2025 at 16:05 GMT by Al Jazeera English
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Bolivia on the Brink: How a Presidential Election Heralds a Political Shift

The forthcoming Bolivian presidential election, slated for December 2025, is unfolding against a backdrop of deep political polarization, economic uncertainty, and a society wrestling with its identity. As the nation braces for what many analysts predict could be a decisive swing from its left‑leaning legacy toward a more centrist or even right‑leaning administration, the stakes are high for Bolivia’s fragile democracy, its indigenous majority, and its economic future.

Historical Context: From Morales to the Present

The election’s significance is rooted in Bolivia’s tumultuous political history over the past decade. In 2006, Evo Morales, a coca farmer and the first indigenous president of Bolivia, ushered in an era of progressive policies that re‑nationalised key industries, redistributed wealth, and promoted indigenous rights. His reforms, however, also drew criticism for authoritarian tendencies and economic mismanagement. The 2019 presidential election was marred by allegations of fraud, leading to Morales’ resignation and a controversial interim government under Jeanine Áñez.

Since then, the nation has seen a series of political infighting and social protests. While Morales’ movement (Movimiento al Socialismo, MAS) retained significant support among rural and indigenous populations, urban areas grew increasingly skeptical. The 2024 mid‑term elections had already revealed a fragmented political landscape: MAS lost its majority in the Chamber of Deputies, and the newly formed Democratic Unity (Unidad Democrática) coalition captured a sizable portion of the Senate.

Key Candidates and Their Platforms

The 2025 presidential race features four prominent figures, each representing distinct political currents:

1. Luis López (MAS): A former minister and seasoned politician, López seeks to revive Morales’ social agenda. His campaign emphasizes land reform, renewable energy projects, and strengthening the coca economy. He promises to tackle corruption through institutional reforms while maintaining the alliance with the Socialist International.

2. María Fernanda “Mafee” Rivera (Democratic Unity): A former mayor of La Paz, Rivera represents a centrist approach. She pledges to modernize public infrastructure, increase investment in technology, and expand public‑private partnerships. Rivera’s platform also focuses on improving security and addressing the growing drug‑related violence in border regions.

3. Jorge Sánchez (Nationalist Republican Front): A charismatic former military officer, Sánchez appeals to voters tired of political gridlock. He advocates for stricter border control, increased oil exploration, and a return to free‑market policies. Sánchez emphasizes national sovereignty, promising to renegotiate foreign contracts and reduce foreign influence in Bolivia’s natural resources.

4. Patricia Valdez (Social Democratic Alliance): An economist with experience in the United Nations, Valdez runs on a platform that blends progressive social policies with fiscal responsibility. She aims to overhaul the education system, increase healthcare spending, and implement tax reforms that favor small businesses while protecting workers’ rights.

The Political Shift: Why Analysts See a Turn

Several factors contribute to the expectation of a political shift:

• Erosion of MAS’s Base: While MAS remains influential, internal divisions and public fatigue over corruption scandals have eroded its grip on rural support. Surveys suggest that a significant portion of MAS voters are open to considering alternative candidates, especially those who promise clean governance.

• Urbanization and Demographic Change: Bolivia’s population is increasingly urban, with 60% now living in cities. Urban voters, who historically leaned towards moderate or right‑leaning parties, are demanding better infrastructure, security, and economic opportunities—needs that the current left‑leaning coalition has struggled to meet.

• Economic Pressures: Inflation has risen sharply, and foreign debt remains high. Many Bolivians blame MAS’s management of natural resource revenues for the economic downturn. A new administration promising fiscal discipline could resonate with those disillusioned by the status quo.

• Security Concerns: Border skirmishes with Peru and Ecuador, along with rising crime in major cities, have heightened public demand for stronger security policies. Candidates like Sánchez and Rivera, who emphasize law enforcement and border control, have gained traction among voters fearing instability.

International Reactions and Regional Implications

The election draws attention beyond Bolivia’s borders. Neighboring countries, particularly Peru and Brazil, are monitoring the outcome closely. A shift towards a more assertive stance on resource management could alter trade dynamics, especially regarding the Amazon region and shared border infrastructure. Moreover, the United States and European Union have expressed interest in maintaining a stable, democratic Bolivia as a counterbalance to leftist movements in the region.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

Regardless of the winner, Bolivia faces a path fraught with challenges. The new administration must reconcile the demands of a diverse electorate, restore investor confidence, and navigate the complex dynamics of indigenous rights versus economic liberalization. The role of civil society remains pivotal, as grassroots movements have historically shaped Bolivia’s political discourse.

In essence, the 2025 presidential election is more than a contest of personalities; it is a referendum on Bolivia’s ideological direction. Whether the country will pivot away from its socialist roots or reaffirm its commitment to social justice will hinge on the electorate’s ability to look beyond partisan rhetoric and focus on tangible solutions for a nation at the crossroads of tradition and progress.