Evo Morales Supporters Clash With Police in Bolivia Over Candidacy Push

In Bolivia, supporters of former President Evo Morales engaged in clashes with police while marching to advocate for his candidacy in the upcoming presidential elections. The protests were fueled by a ruling from the Constitutional Court preventing him from running again. Despite rising tensions and police action, many supporters expressed unwavering loyalty to Morales, asserting their determination to stand by him amid fears of arrest due to unresolved legal issues.

The streets of Bolivia witnessed tension as hundreds of supporters of former President Evo Morales descended on the country’s top electoral court on Friday. They marched in a fervent effort to advocate for Morales’s candidacy in the presidential elections set for August. However, the gathering quickly deteriorated into clashes as police attempted to disperse the demonstrators, indicating heightened political tensions amid an ongoing economic crisis in Bolivia.

In La Paz, protesters demanded, “Comrades, what do we want? For Evo to come back!” Reports of injuries arose during the confrontations, which involved rock-throwing from the demonstrators and a heavy police response using tear gas. Initial accounts indicate two police officers, along with a journalist and a local merchant, suffered injuries. Police Commander Juan Russo commented, “They’re using firecrackers and rocks that are hurting our forces. This is not a peaceful march.”

Tensions have been mounting following the latest ruling by Bolivia’s Constitutional Court, which effectively barred Morales from running again, citing a two-term limit for presidents. Morales, who notably served three terms, faced pressure leading to his resignation in 2019 amidst widespread protests over his attempt to secure a fourth term. For context, his return from exile coincided with the election of President Luis Arce, his former mentee, in 2020.

As the march unfolded, the governmental response was stark. “We ask Mr. Morales to surrender voluntarily,” stated Eduardo del Castillo, a senior minister. He continued, hinting at the repercussions of Morales’s defiance, “If we find him walking the streets, we will arrest him.” Morales remains in hiding due to fears of arrest over human trafficking allegations, which he claims are baseless and politically motivated.

The ongoing struggle reflects a deep-rooted conflict over political power and legitimacy in Bolivia. Despite the court’s decision disqualifying Morales, supporters like Oscar Hassentoufel, president of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, asserted that Morales could still register his candidacy, as the tribunal will ultimately determine his eligibility.

The march showcased not only a fervent show of support but also underscored the support Morales still commands among his base—especially in rural regions. Many within the Indigenous coca-growing communities feel that Morales transformed their fortunes during his presidency, redistributing wealth and championing their rights.

Though Morales did not participate directly in the march, many of his supporters embodied his spirit by wearing masks with his likeness. As David Ochoa, a representative of the demonstrators, passionately declared, “Evo Morales is each and every one of us. If they want to detain Evo Morales they would need to take every one of us, too.” The statement not only reflects solidarity but illustrates the polarizing political landscape in Bolivia as the country prepares for upcoming elections amidst significant economic challenges.

The protests and clashes surrounding Evo Morales’ candidacy underline deep divisions within Bolivian society and the complexities of its political landscape. As supporters rally against the Constitutional Court’s disqualification, the government’s hard-line stance reveals a concerning trajectory of political instability. Morales’ absence and the ramifications of his potential candidacy continue to shape the political discourse as Bolivia heads towards the elections amidst significant adversity.

Original Source: apnews.com