Bolivia’s presidential election on August 17, 2025, has triggered the nation’s first-ever runoff, scheduled for October 19, ending over two decades of dominance by the Movement Toward Socialism (MAS) party. Centrist Senator Rodrigo Paz, a surprise frontrunner with 32.8% of the vote, will face right-wing former President Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga, who secured 26.4%, as neither achieved the required 50% or 40% with a 10-point lead to win outright, according to over 91% of ballots counted.
Paz, a former mayor of Tarija, campaigned on moderating the opposition’s austerity push to address Bolivia’s economic collapse, marked by 16% inflation, fuel shortages, and a critical lack of U.S. dollars for imports like wheat. “This economic model must change,” Paz told supporters, emphasizing a centrist path to stability. Quiroga, who led Bolivia from 2001 to 2002, advocated for privatizing lithium reserves and seeking IMF loans, promising a “free nation.”
The results delivered a crushing blow to the MAS, with official candidate Eduardo del Castillo garnering only 3.2% and Senate president Andrónico Rodríguez 8%. The party, led by Evo Morales from 2006 to 2019, fractured under internal disputes between Morales and President Luis Arce, compounded by allegations against Morales of sexual misconduct. Bolivia’s economic woes—once mitigated by natural gas revenues—fueled voter discontent, with protests over fuel and food shortages dominating the campaign.
Also Read: Congress Claims PM Modi’s Policies Crippled India’s Economy
Paz’s lead defied polls favoring Quiroga and businessman Samuel Doria Medina, whose fourth presidential bid failed. Voters, wary of a sharp right-wing shift, embraced Paz’s moderate stance, though his ties to Bolivia’s political elite—son of former President Jaime Paz Zamora (1989-1993)—link him to the pre-Morales era. Quiroga, associated with U.S.-backed neoliberal policies, struggles to connect with younger voters.
On X, sentiments reflect frustration with the MAS and cautious optimism for change. User @Rodrigo_PazP posted, “This August 17 we will win. Grateful to all who joined us in #ElAlto,” while @tutoquiroga urged, “Let’s all go vote. #BoliviaVota.” Voter Eileen Mirabal told the Associated Press, “The economy is a disaster right now, so I voted for change.”
The October runoff will determine whether Bolivia pivots toward centrism or a right-wing resurgence, with implications for its lithium reserves and foreign alignments. Paz’s promise of democratic renewal contrasts with Quiroga’s conservative reforms, setting the stage for a pivotal contest in a nation weary of polarization and economic hardship.
Also Read: Congress Attacks PM Modi as Chinese Minister Visits Amid Pakistan Tensions