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Paz–Lara Lead Bolivian First Round as ‘Capitán’ Rallies for October Runoff

The ex-police whistleblower is mobilizing young Aymara supporters with an anti-corruption pledge.

Overview

  • Preliminary official results put the ticket at 32.14% ahead of Jorge Quiroga–Juan Pablo Velazco at 26.81%, sending the race to an October 19 runoff pending the final count.
  • Edman Lara launched the between-rounds push with a mass event in El Alto, a city long seen as a bastion for MAS.
  • From the stage, Lara vowed to be “the guarantee” and said he would confront Rodrigo Paz if campaign promises are not honored.
  • The campaign’s platform highlights accessible credit for young entrepreneurs, a nearly $300 pension bonus, and a “capitalism for all” plan to boost formal economic activity.
  • Lara’s profile stems from viral 2023 posts alleging police corruption and a televised clash with commander Eric Holguín, which helped galvanize support among youth and rural leaders in La Paz.