Bolivian Senate OKs New Election, Bars Ex-president

Bolivia’s Senate on Saturday unanimously approved a measure calling for new presidential elections that would exclude ousted leader Evo Morales — a key step toward pacifying a nation since an October 20 vote marred by reported irregularities. 

The measure forbids reelection of anyone who has served the last two terms consecutively as president, effectively ruling out Morales, whose refusal to accept such term limits was a key issue in protests against him. 

The bill now goes to the lower house, which like the Senate is dominated by Morales’ Movement Toward Socialism party. 

The measure did not set a date for the vote. 

Resignation

Morales’ claim of victory and a fourth term in the October 20 election prompted massive protests that led him to resign on November 10 at the army’s suggestion. An audit by a team from the Organization of American States found widespread irregularities in that election. 

After Morales left for asylum in Mexico, his own supporters took to the streets in protest. 

Officials say at least 32 people have died in demonstrations since the presidential election, which would be annulled by Saturday’s vote. 

An agreement on elections between Morales’ party and the interim government helped pacify the country. Street blockades were lifted, allowing supplies to reach marketplaces Saturday in areas that had been short of groceries and gas. 

Senator Oscar Ortiz said the bill calls for updating the electoral rolls and naming a completely new electoral tribunal to oversee the vote. 

Senators approve a bill on holding new elections in La Paz, Bolivia, Nov. 23, 2019.

“We have to generate confidence in the population,” said Senator Omar Aguilar, from Morales’ party. 

Later Saturday, interim President Jeanine Anez rejected a bill presented by Morales’ party that would have prevented the ousted president from being tried for alleged crimes committed during the exercise of his functions to date. 

“With respect to approving this bill in favor of those who have committed crimes and who now seek impunity, my decision is clear and firm: I will not promulgate this law,” Anez said. 

The bill remains paralyzed, lawmakers said. 

On Friday, the interim government accused Morales of terrorism and sedition for purportedly organizing highway blockades intended to prevent food from reaching some cities. 

Acting Interior Minister Arturo Murillo said the complaint relates to a video in which Morales is supposedly heard in a phone call coordinating the blockades from Mexico. Murillo said Bolivia’s government is seeking a maximum penalty, which is between 15 and 20 years in prison. 

Morales has said the video is a “montage” by his opponents. 

by via Voice of America - English