Bolivia Shifts Right as Rodrigo Paz and Edmand Lara Inaugurated
LA PAZ, Bolivia – Rodrigo Paz and Edmand Lara assumed the presidency and vice presidency of Bolivia today, marking a decisive end to nearly two decades of leftist governance. The inauguration signals a notable political shift for the Andean nation, following the presidencies of Evo Morales and Luis Arce.
The transfer of power comes amid economic challenges, including fuel shortages and questions surrounding the country’s natural resource wealth. Paz, a lawyer and businessman, campaigned on a platform of economic liberalization and a break from the policies of his predecessors. The outcome impacts bolivia’s 12.3 million citizens, its international relations, and the future of its resource-rich economy. The new governance faces immediate pressure to address the fuel crisis and deliver on promises of economic stability.
During his inaugural address, Paz directly criticized the previous administrations of Morales and Arce, questioning the fulfillment of promises related to natural gas and lithium development. ”Where is the blessed sea of gas that they promised us? They told us that Bolivia was going to have a sea of gas, remember,” Paz stated. He further challenged, “Evo, where is the lithium? Arce, where is the lithium?”
Paz also addressed recent political unrest, stating, “They betrayed us, and betrayal is paid in Bolivia because it is the cost that the most humble have and we are going to defend the most humble.” This statement alludes to accusations of corruption and mismanagement leveled against the previous governments.
The new president announced that tankers carrying diesel and gasoline began entering Bolivia “as last night,” aiming to alleviate the ongoing fuel shortages. The administration intends to implement policies designed to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth, diverging from the nationalization policies favored by Morales and Arce.
Paz won the October 2023 election with 49.4% of the vote, defeating Arce, who secured 35.5%. Lara, a businessman, will serve as vice president. The transition represents a pivotal moment for Bolivia, as the country navigates a new political and economic course.
