Bolivia reinstates a leftist challenger but keeps former leader Morales off the ballot
Associated Press2 days
Bolivia Confirms Andrónico Rodríguez on Presidential Ballot
Above: Andrónico Rodríguez Ledezma takes part in a rally in El Alto on May 10, 2025. Image copyright: Radoslaw Czajkowski/Contributor/picture alliance via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
These rulings expose a coordinated effort to exclude popular leaders and manipulate the electoral process for partisan gain. Packed with judges loyal to President Luis Arce, the constitutional court acts like a sniper, restricting candidates based on political convenience rather than legal merit. Morales' exclusion violates his human rights and democratic principles, forcing citizens to take legitimate protest action to defend their electoral choices.
Right narrative
These decisions represent a clear defense of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Bolivia. Morales has already served the maximum terms allowed under the constitution, and his attempts to circumvent these limits through dubious legal maneuvers pose a threat to the country's stability. The court's independence in upholding constitutional term limits, despite violent intimidation tactics, including explosive attacks on their headquarters, demonstrates institutional strength.