Luis Arce confessed in a recent interview that he did not execute the arrest warrant against Evo Morales. He justified his inaction with the argument of avoiding a confrontation. He stated that Morales has an "armed team" that protects him in the Tropic of Cochabamba.
This revelation confirms the existence of a parallel power operating with total impunity. The president appeared more concerned about avoiding a "bloodbath" than about enforcing the law. By doing so, he made it clear that justice in Bolivia depends on political calculations and not on the rule of law.
Meanwhile, Morales remains free, despite an accusation of aggravated human trafficking. He is accused of having had a relationship with a minor and of having had a child with her when he was head of state. The authorities have not acted, and the victim has been forgotten.
During the same interview, Arce insisted that his government preserved democracy. He said that he resisted "mobilizations" promoted by Morales, although these caused deaths.
Impunity for the murderers
The recent road blockade left six dead, including four police officers. However, Arce never questioned Morales for those victims. He also did not order his arrest for directing those violent actions.
Far from defending the law, Arce portrayed himself as a victim. He claims to have been "attacked" by Morales since he took office. According to him, the leader of Chapare destroyed the "political instrument" and the "democratic revolution."
Even so, instead of sanctioning him, he protected him. That act can only be interpreted as complicity.
Luis Arce also referred to Morales's candidacy, whom he blamed for dividing the ruling party. He argued that there is no proscription, but rather a constitutional restriction. He recalled that the Constitutional Court has already prohibited a new reelection.
However, Morales insists on running above the law. Arce, instead of enforcing it, allows the confrontation.
A distant promise
Arce also stated that he will hand over power to whoever wins the August elections. He said that will be his legacy: a "democratic transition." However, Arce's democracy is one where a fugitive criminal imposes conditions from his armed stronghold.
Meanwhile, Luis Arce speaks of democracy, he also avoids enforcing an arrest warrant against the pedophile. His discourse contradicts his actions.
For years, Morales moved freely despite multiple complaints. He was accused not only of corruption, but of more serious crimes. No institution touched him, and Arce left him untouched.
