Bolivia’s President Arce, polls slipping, quits 2025 presidential race
LA PAZ, Bolivia — President Luis Arce, who took office in 2020 and was expected to run for a second term, announced on Tuesday that he would withdraw from Bolivia’s upcoming presidential election in August.
The decision comes amidst a growing divide within Bolivia’s ruling party, as Arce and his former ally, ex-President Evo Morales, vie for control of the leftist faction.
Arce stated in his address that he does not want to split the popular vote, fearing it would give an advantage to right-wing and centrist parties. He also emphasized his opposition to any attempts to dismantle the country’s socialist economic model.
The ongoing economic crisis in Bolivia, marked by fuel shortages and high inflation, has put pressure on Arce’s administration. Despite inheriting some of these challenges from Morales, Arce has faced criticism for his handling of the situation.
With Arce stepping back, Morales and Senate President Andronico Rodríguez emerge as key figures in the upcoming election. Morales, who had to form his own party due to the rift within the MAS, continues to be a prominent figure in Bolivian politics.
The dynamics between Arce, Morales, and Rodríguez highlight the complexities of Bolivia’s political landscape as the country gears up for a competitive election season.
As the campaign unfolds, it remains to be seen how the various candidates will position themselves and whether any one contender will emerge as a frontrunner in the race for the presidency.
