Evo Morales, former president of Bolivia, is preparing to return to power from the stronghold of Lauca Ene. Supporters rally behind him despite serious allegations of misconduct and a court-imposed ban on exceeding two presidential terms. He asserts his legal eligibility and plans to register for a fourth term in La Paz, warning of potential unrest among his supporters if denied.
As night descends on Lauca Ene, around 500 Indigenous people gather in solidarity, raising their spears and chanting “Long live Evo Morales!” The former president maintains an impressive hold over this community of coca growers and ensures that no one may enter without his say-so. This hamlet, located in central Bolivia, acts as the epicenter of his influence within the Tropico de Cochabamba department, a lush area that supports roughly 260,000 residents.
Evo Morales, now 65 years old, is working diligently to reclaim power despite a legal barrier that restricts individuals from serving more than two presidential terms. Having risen from severe poverty to become Bolivia’s first Indigenous president from 2006 until 2019, he still possesses the charisma to rally his supporters. In the past seven months, Lauca Ene has become Morales’s sanctuary as he faces an arrest warrant regarding serious allegations that followed him through the nation.
The charges against Morales stem from claims that he had a relationship with a 15-year-old girl during his presidency and fathered a child with her in 2016. He has categorically denied these accusations, asserting he is the victim of politically motivated “judicial persecution.
Ongoing tensions paint a complex picture of Bolivia’s political landscape, where loyalty to Evo Morales remains exceedingly strong among his supporters. Despite facing serious criminal allegations, he is determined to secure his candidacy for a fourth presidential term, asserting his constitutional right to run. Meanwhile, incidents of unrest may arise if his followers perceive any threats to Morales’s return, as they still resonate with memories of past upheavals during his administration.
Original Source: www.kten.com
