Former dictator Evo Morales has reignited political tensions by stating that his supporters will seek to force his registration with the TSE. During his Sunday radio program, he issued direct warnings against the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE).
He demanded that his candidacy be allowed despite constitutional restrictions. "If they don't accept, the people will get heated," Morales said in a defiant tone. The message was interpreted as a call for violent pressure.
The march called by the Evo faction aims to force Morales's registration in the August elections. This is the second mobilization in less than two weeks with the same objective.
On May 16, his supporters attempted to take over the TSE without success. That day ended with arrests and clashes. Nevertheless, Morales insists on repeating the strategy.
The coca growers' leader is currently taking refuge in the tropics of Cochabamba. There, he confirmed that the central objective of the marches is his qualification as a candidate. He also denounced an alleged political persecution against him.
He stated that he is facing a "judicial war" driven by Luis Arce's government. Morales has an outstanding arrest warrant for human trafficking.
From Potosí, Evo faction leaders threatened to plunge the country into turmoil if their leader is not registered. Some even suggested preventing the general elections. "There will be no elections if Evo is not a candidate," a representative stated.
This threat adds to other similar statements made in recent days. The tone of the speeches is causing concern in the political sphere.
Guarantees for committing crimes?
Wilma Alanoca, candidate for Vice President for the Evo Pueblo front, also called for mobilization. In a message shared on social media, she demanded guarantees for the march.
She denounced repression during the previous mobilization on May 16. She accused the TSE of bias and discrimination against the Evo faction. However, she was careful not to label the march as "peaceful."
Despite the call, Morales tried to distance himself from possible consequences. “Don't blame Evo,” he said when referring to the protest hotspots. He assured that the mobilization is spontaneous.
He also pointed out that it is due to a combination of factors such as the economic crisis and lack of justice. Nevertheless, his own statements contradict that position.
The Government activated security measures in response to the threat of protests. The National Police deployed officers at the entrances to La Paz. Security was also reinforced at the TSE and other strategic institutions.
