The document discusses the unexpected fall of Evo Morales, the former president of Bolivia, who was ousted following his resignation and exile to Mexico along with his vice-president Álvaro García Linera after almost 14 years of government support from the Movement for Socialism-Instrument for Political Sovereignty of the People (MAS-IPSP). This occurred despite Morales maintaining a strong political base, evident in the 2010 elections where the MAS retained its hegemonic power.
However, the document highlights that the party's support had significantly diminished, dropping below 50%, and losing 21 seats in the legislature, which is crucial but not enough to lose control over the chamber. The political fragmentation and institutional weakness were seen as key factors behind the downfall.
The document also mentions that Morales' decision to run for a fourth term, defying constitutional provisions he helped draft, and the questionable handling of the election process, including the recount of votes and system failure, contributed to the crisis. It emphasizes that these actions did not explain the widespread discontent among major actors under Morales' authority.
The document argues that the government failed to address the deep social divisions and weaken the legitimacy of the ruling party, which is crucial in a country as complex and geographically diverse as Bolivia. The document suggests that the leadership of Morales and his closest circle may have lost touch with various sectors of Bolivian society over time.
In conclusion, the document notes that the dissolution of the MAS leadership and the establishment of a new government led by President Jeanine Anez has paved the way for new elections, but challenges remain in reconstructing political legitimacy, dealing with violence, and maintaining a non-confrontational discourse. The document also points out that the legal framework for these new elections rules out the possibility of Morales or García Linera running again. This marks the end of MAS hegemony and the confirmation of a more plural political landscape that requires cooperation and inclusion.
