Bolivia Faces Political Shift as Presidential Election Heads to Run-Off
Published 17 August 2025
Highlights
- Bolivia's presidential election will go to a run-off between Rodrigo Paz Pereira and Jorge Quiroga, ending nearly 20 years of leftist rule.
- Preliminary results show Paz Pereira leading with 32.1% and Quiroga with 26.9% of the vote.
- The election marks a potential shift in Bolivia's foreign policy, with possible closer ties to the US and increased foreign investment in lithium reserves.
- The economic crisis, marked by shortages and inflation, is a central issue influencing voter sentiment.
- Incumbent President Luis Arce did not seek re-election, and the ruling party's candidate, Eduardo del Castillo, received only 3.15% of the vote.
-
Rewritten Article
Bolivia Faces Political Shift as Presidential Election Heads to Run-Off
Bolivia is on the brink of a significant political transformation as the presidential election heads to a run-off between two right-wing candidates, marking the end of nearly two decades of leftist governance under the Movimiento al Socialismo (MAS) party. Preliminary results from the recent election show Senator Rodrigo Paz Pereira, representing the Christian Democratic Party, leading with 32.1% of the vote, followed by former President Jorge Quiroga with 26.9%.
A Surprising Lead
Rodrigo Paz Pereira's unexpected lead in the polls has been attributed to his campaign's focus on economic reform and anti-corruption measures. His slogan, "capitalism for all, not just a few," resonated with voters seeking change amid Bolivia's worst economic crisis in decades. Paz Pereira has proposed policies such as accessible credit, tax incentives, and the removal of import barriers to stimulate the economy.
Economic Crisis and Political Change
The economic downturn, characterized by fuel shortages, inflation, and dwindling foreign reserves, has been a pivotal issue in the election. Many Bolivians are eager for a shift in leadership, hoping for solutions to the economic challenges that have plagued the country. The current president, Luis Arce, chose not to run for re-election, and the MAS candidate, Eduardo del Castillo, garnered only 3.15% of the vote, barely maintaining the party's legal status.
Implications for Foreign Policy
The potential election of a non-leftist president could lead to a significant shift in Bolivia's foreign policy. Both Paz Pereira and Quiroga have expressed support for foreign investment, particularly in Bolivia's vast lithium reserves, a critical resource for electric vehicle batteries. This shift could also result in closer ties with the United States, contrasting with the previous administration's alliances with China, Russia, and Iran.
Political Tensions and Violence
The election period has not been without tension. Incidents of violence and unrest have been reported, including an explosive device detonated at a polling station. The left-wing candidate Andrónico Rodríguez, once a member of MAS, faced hostility while casting his vote. Despite these challenges, the electoral process continues, with the run-off scheduled for October 19.
-
Scenario Analysis
As Bolivia prepares for the run-off election, the outcome could redefine the country's political landscape. A victory for either Paz Pereira or Quiroga may lead to significant economic and foreign policy shifts, potentially attracting foreign investment and altering international alliances. However, the transition may also face resistance from entrenched political factions and social movements. Experts suggest that the new administration will need to address the economic crisis swiftly to maintain public support and ensure stability. The run-off results will be closely watched, as they could set the tone for Bolivia's future direction on both domestic and international fronts.
Bolivia is on the brink of a significant political transformation as the presidential election heads to a run-off between two right-wing candidates, marking the end of nearly two decades of leftist governance under the Movimiento al Socialismo (MAS) party. Preliminary results from the recent election show Senator Rodrigo Paz Pereira, representing the Christian Democratic Party, leading with 32.1% of the vote, followed by former President Jorge Quiroga with 26.9%.
A Surprising Lead
Rodrigo Paz Pereira's unexpected lead in the polls has been attributed to his campaign's focus on economic reform and anti-corruption measures. His slogan, "capitalism for all, not just a few," resonated with voters seeking change amid Bolivia's worst economic crisis in decades. Paz Pereira has proposed policies such as accessible credit, tax incentives, and the removal of import barriers to stimulate the economy.
Economic Crisis and Political Change
The economic downturn, characterized by fuel shortages, inflation, and dwindling foreign reserves, has been a pivotal issue in the election. Many Bolivians are eager for a shift in leadership, hoping for solutions to the economic challenges that have plagued the country. The current president, Luis Arce, chose not to run for re-election, and the MAS candidate, Eduardo del Castillo, garnered only 3.15% of the vote, barely maintaining the party's legal status.
Implications for Foreign Policy
The potential election of a non-leftist president could lead to a significant shift in Bolivia's foreign policy. Both Paz Pereira and Quiroga have expressed support for foreign investment, particularly in Bolivia's vast lithium reserves, a critical resource for electric vehicle batteries. This shift could also result in closer ties with the United States, contrasting with the previous administration's alliances with China, Russia, and Iran.
Political Tensions and Violence
The election period has not been without tension. Incidents of violence and unrest have been reported, including an explosive device detonated at a polling station. The left-wing candidate Andrónico Rodríguez, once a member of MAS, faced hostility while casting his vote. Despite these challenges, the electoral process continues, with the run-off scheduled for October 19.
What this might mean
As Bolivia prepares for the run-off election, the outcome could redefine the country's political landscape. A victory for either Paz Pereira or Quiroga may lead to significant economic and foreign policy shifts, potentially attracting foreign investment and altering international alliances. However, the transition may also face resistance from entrenched political factions and social movements. Experts suggest that the new administration will need to address the economic crisis swiftly to maintain public support and ensure stability. The run-off results will be closely watched, as they could set the tone for Bolivia's future direction on both domestic and international fronts.
