Mon Aug 18 03:00:00 UTC 2025: **Bolivia Braces for Potential Shift to the Right as Elections Conclude**
**La Paz, Bolivia** – Polls have closed in Bolivia’s presidential and general elections, signaling a potential end to nearly two decades of socialist rule amid a deep economic crisis and divisions within the governing Movement for Socialism (MAS) party. Initial results are expected to be released later tonight, but early polling indicates a strong showing for right-wing candidates Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga and Samuel Doria Medina.
The election marks a significant turning point for Bolivia, which has been led by the left-leaning MAS party for almost 20 years. However, the country is currently grappling with its worst economic crisis in a generation, characterized by soaring inflation, shortages of dollars and fuel, and dwindling gas revenues.
Former President Evo Morales, barred from running in the election, has urged his supporters to cast invalid votes, a move that could further complicate the outcome given the crowded field of eight presidential candidates. The official MAS candidate, Eduardo del Castillo, backed by outgoing President Luis Arce, faces an uphill battle.
Quiroga, a former interim president and vice president under the former military ruler Hugo Banzer, and Doria Medina, a wealthy businessman and former planning minister, have both pledged to overhaul Bolivia’s state-led economic model. They promise to tackle inflation and resolve the shortages that have sparked widespread protests across the country.
While Morales oversaw a period of significant economic growth and poverty reduction, fueled by nationalized gas revenues, underinvestment in exploration has crippled the sector. The economic downturn has fueled discontent and paved the way for a potential shift in political power.
Official election results are expected within seven days. A runoff election will be held on October 19 if no candidate secures an outright majority. The outcome of this election will determine the future of Bolivia as it navigates its economic challenges and political divisions.
First Piper 