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6h ago

Bolivia Votes in Runoff That Could End Two Decades of Leftist Rule

Recent polling puts Jorge "Tuto" Quiroga ahead, reflecting voter anger over inflation.

Eine Wahlkampfveranstaltung im bolivianischen El Alto.
In Bolivien hat die Stichwahl für einen neuen Präsidenten begonnen. Dabei treten zwei rechtsgerichtete Kandidaten gegeneinander an: der frühere Staatschef Jorge "Tuto" Quiroga und der christdemokratische Senator Rodrigo Paz.
In Bolivien fällt am Sonntag in einer Stichwahl die Entscheidung über den neuen Präsidenten. Dabei treten zwei rechtsgerichtete Kandidaten gegeneinander an: der frühere Staatschef Jorge "Tuto" Quiroga und der christdemokratische Senator Rodrigo Paz.

Overview

  • Polling stations are open from 08:00 to 16:00 local time with compulsory voting for roughly eight million citizens.
  • Surveys before the vote showed Quiroga near 45% versus Rodrigo Paz at about 36.5%, even though Paz led the first round in August.
  • The country faces inflation near 25% alongside shortages of fuel and foreign currency, leaving the state treasury effectively depleted.
  • Quiroga campaigns on market-oriented changes including privatizations, free-trade agreements and a new constitution, while Paz proposes cutting state spending, anti-corruption measures, tax reform and a basic income for women.
  • With two right-leaning finalists ensuring a policy shift away from MAS, observers also note the risk of mobilization by Evo Morales’ supporters if the right prevails.