Bolivia has elected a centrist senator, Rodrigo Paz, as its next president, bringing an end to nearly 20 years of continuous rule by the Movement for Socialism (Mas) party. With almost all votes counted, Paz, of the Christian Democratic Party, defeated right-wing candidate Jorge Tuto Quiroga in Sunday’s run-off election with a share of 54.6%.
A severe economic crisis and infighting within Mas, which has dominated Bolivian politics since 2006, saw many voters wanting change. Paz has said he will end fuel shortages and address Bolivia's wider economic problems. In his victory speech, he stated he would open up Bolivia to wider international investment and stimulate private-sector growth.
Paz, 58, went from being a surprise frontrunner in the first round of the election in August to achieving a clear win over Tuto Quiroga, who received 45.4% of the votes in the run-off. The candidate for Mas did not make it into the run-off. Paz is perceived as relatively moderate and centrist compared to his opponent, making him more attractive to undecided and disillusioned left-leaning voters.
Quiroga has conceded defeat and called his rival to congratulate him. Paz's supporters took to the streets of La Paz to celebrate the result, with many expressing hope for a new direction for Bolivia.
Bolivia is grappling with severe shortages of fuel, soaring inflation, and a lack of US dollars. Paz campaigned with the slogan capitalism for all, promising free-market reforms and social programmes to help the poorest in society. He pledged to ease access to credit for small businesses, lower taxes, and decentralise the government.
Paz's choice of running mate has helped attract working-class voters. Vice president-elect Edman Lara is known for his whistleblowing on police corruption and has a strong social media following. Bolivia has been relatively isolated on the world stage, but Paz's election victory could indicate a thaw in relations with the United States.
Paz will take office on November 8, 2025, inheriting tough economic circumstances and a divided country. Restoring economic credibility and uniting the country after years of political turmoil will be a significant challenge.
A severe economic crisis and infighting within Mas, which has dominated Bolivian politics since 2006, saw many voters wanting change. Paz has said he will end fuel shortages and address Bolivia's wider economic problems. In his victory speech, he stated he would open up Bolivia to wider international investment and stimulate private-sector growth.
Paz, 58, went from being a surprise frontrunner in the first round of the election in August to achieving a clear win over Tuto Quiroga, who received 45.4% of the votes in the run-off. The candidate for Mas did not make it into the run-off. Paz is perceived as relatively moderate and centrist compared to his opponent, making him more attractive to undecided and disillusioned left-leaning voters.
Quiroga has conceded defeat and called his rival to congratulate him. Paz's supporters took to the streets of La Paz to celebrate the result, with many expressing hope for a new direction for Bolivia.
Bolivia is grappling with severe shortages of fuel, soaring inflation, and a lack of US dollars. Paz campaigned with the slogan capitalism for all, promising free-market reforms and social programmes to help the poorest in society. He pledged to ease access to credit for small businesses, lower taxes, and decentralise the government.
Paz's choice of running mate has helped attract working-class voters. Vice president-elect Edman Lara is known for his whistleblowing on police corruption and has a strong social media following. Bolivia has been relatively isolated on the world stage, but Paz's election victory could indicate a thaw in relations with the United States.
Paz will take office on November 8, 2025, inheriting tough economic circumstances and a divided country. Restoring economic credibility and uniting the country after years of political turmoil will be a significant challenge.
