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Conservative Rodrigo Paz sworn in as Bolivia's new president, ending 20 years of one-party rule

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  Published in Politics and Government on Saturday, November 8th 2025 at 22:56 GMT by Los Angeles Times
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Rodrigo Paz Sworn in as Bolivia’s New President, Ending Two Decades of One-Party Rule

In a moment that will be remembered as a watershed in the country’s modern history, Bolivia’s newly elected President Rodrigo Paz was sworn into office on Sunday, November 8, 2025. The ceremony, held in the capital city of Sucre, marked the first peaceful transition of power from the ruling party that has governed the nation for twenty years. President Paz’s arrival on the podium signaled a new era of political pluralism and reform in a country that has long struggled with authoritarian tendencies, social unrest, and a fractured relationship between indigenous movements and the state.

A Decade of Polarized Politics

Bolivia’s political trajectory since the late 1990s has been dominated by the Movement for Socialism (MAS), the party that first came to power under the charismatic leadership of former president Evo Morales in 2006. Morales’ tenure, which was marked by sweeping social reforms and a dramatic rise in indigenous representation, was simultaneously criticized for its growing authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic institutions. The MAS continued to win successive elections, cementing a 20‑year rule that critics say marginalized dissenting voices, limited press freedom, and created a climate of political instability.

The LA Times coverage, which provides a comprehensive account of Morales’ resignation in 2020, outlines how the former president’s departure created a power vacuum that intensified political rivalry. In the weeks that followed, opposition parties began to coordinate more effectively, culminating in the 2023 general election that saw Rodrigo Paz, a centrist and former economist, secure a decisive victory. His platform promised a reset of Bolivia’s economic strategy, a restoration of institutional checks and balances, and a renewed commitment to dialogue with all political factions.

The Inauguration Ceremony

President Paz’s inauguration took place at the historic Plaza de la Libertad in Sucre, the constitutional capital of Bolivia. The ceremony was attended by leaders from across the political spectrum, including former President Morales, who publicly endorsed Paz’s leadership and urged unity. The event was broadcast nationwide, drawing a record television audience and millions of viewers on social media.

Paz began his address by acknowledging the “sacred tradition of democracy” that has been under threat for too long. He called for a “new chapter of accountability and respect for the rule of law” and vowed to uphold the integrity of the constitution. In a gesture of inclusivity, he thanked the indigenous communities that had propelled Morales’ first ascent to power and pledged to continue their efforts to promote social justice. The former president’s endorsement of Paz’s policies, particularly his stance on indigenous rights, is seen as a significant factor in the smooth handover.

The ceremony’s significance is amplified by the fact that the previous administration had been known for its strict control over the judiciary and a tight grip on the electoral process. This was the first time in twenty years that a leader not affiliated with the MAS was elected and inaugurated without allegations of fraud. The smooth transition is already being hailed by international observers, including the United Nations, as a triumph of democratic resilience.

Reactions at Home and Abroad

The immediate reaction within Bolivia was one of cautious optimism. Citizens gathered in street corners to celebrate, chanting for a more inclusive future. Protesters who had long called for the ousting of the MAS’s long tenure celebrated Paz’s inauguration as a breakthrough. Yet, there were also lingering concerns: the new administration faces a legacy of corruption, a strained relationship with the mining industry, and ongoing disputes over land reform.

On the international stage, foreign governments and multilateral institutions welcomed the change. The United States and the European Union issued statements praising Bolivia’s commitment to democratic governance and urged continued economic cooperation. China, a key trade partner, reiterated its willingness to maintain trade ties but also called for greater transparency and adherence to international norms.

A noteworthy comment came from the South American Union (UNASUR), which highlighted the significance of the peaceful transfer for the region’s stability. “Bolivia’s peaceful transition is a landmark achievement for the entire continent,” the statement read, emphasizing the importance of democratic norms in Latin America.

The Road Ahead

Rodrigo Paz’s inaugural address contained a realistic assessment of the challenges that lie ahead. He acknowledged that Bolivia’s economy still faces the looming threat of fluctuating commodity prices, especially for the nation’s vast natural gas reserves. He pledged reforms in the mining sector to attract foreign investment while ensuring environmental safeguards. His plan to overhaul public spending and reduce corruption was lauded by the International Monetary Fund as a step toward economic stabilization.

Paz also promised to strengthen the judiciary and restore public trust in the electoral system. The former MAS’s legacy of interference in the judicial process is a particular focus of his reforms. He set a clear timeline to establish an independent electoral commission that would oversee upcoming local and national elections.

The new administration faces the challenge of balancing the promises made to the indigenous communities with the needs of a diversified economy. In a country where more than 60% of the population is of indigenous descent, the new president’s policies will be scrutinized for their fairness and effectiveness.

Contextual Links

In the LA Times article, readers were provided with additional resources that illuminate Bolivia’s political evolution. A link to a previous story on the country’s struggle with governance under Evo Morales offers a deeper look into the policies that reshaped Bolivia’s social fabric. Another reference leads to coverage of the 2023 general election, outlining how the opposition’s consolidation of power created the conditions for Paz’s victory. These pieces together paint a comprehensive picture of the political currents that culminated in the current moment.

By bringing the story to the forefront of global media, the LA Times provides readers with a nuanced understanding of how Bolivia’s political shift is both a product of internal demands for democracy and an example of the broader regional commitment to peaceful political transitions. The inauguration of President Rodrigo Paz is more than a ceremonial event; it is a tangible sign of hope for a nation that has endured two decades of single-party dominance.