Elections: The MAS member Tahuichi Tahuichi expressed his desire to preside over the TSE.

Tahuichi Tahuichi Quispe, member of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE), confirmed his interest in presiding over the Plenary Chamber. The member used a religious metaphor to describe the voting process. He stated that he hopes there will be "white smoke" in the session; if consensus is not reached, the election will continue until it is achieved.

Recently, Tahuichi assured that he is prepared to take on the challenge and recalled that in 2019 he received the most support from the assembly members in his appointment. He stated that he has the necessary experience after leading previous electoral processes. He emphasized his participation in the 2020 and 2021 elections, ruling out lobbying to achieve his election.

Óscar Hassenteufel's term as president of the TSE ends this April 30, according to Law 018, he can't be reelected again. Hassenteufel led the TSE for two consecutive terms. His leadership is valued for his defense of institutional independence, now his departure generates concerns in various political sectors.

From the opposition, legislators expressed their fear of a possible setback and warned that a change could affect the transparency of the 2025 electoral process. Alejandra Camargo highlighted that the independence of the TSE must be preserved. The deputy emphasized Hassenteufel's work in defending this quality, expressing concern about possible interference from the ruling party.

Senator Centa Rek also expressed her concern about the change of authorities and questioned that the election is held in the middle of the electoral process. She proposed analyzing Hassenteufel's continuity until after the elections. She noted that changing leadership could affect commitments made and considered it risky to modify the leadership at a crucial stage.

Jorge Quiroga, leader of Libre, also called for preserving the current structure of the TSE. He compared the situation to not changing pilots in the middle of a storm and highlighted the credibility achieved by Hassenteufel in his administration. He stated that his departure could generate uncertainty among citizens, suggesting avoiding drastic changes at such a sensitive time.

The election of the new president requires an absolute majority in the Plenary Chamber, meaning four of the seven members must support a candidate. Among the names mentioned are Tahuichi Tahuichi and Francisco Vargas. Both members are the most visible in the media, the final decision will be key for the conduct of the electoral process.

Is the credibility of the TSE at risk?

Tahuichi expressed confidence that the current legal frameworks will be respected and assured that he doesn't seek to impose his candidacy over his colleagues. He insisted that his candidacy is legitimate and based on his track record. However, he emphasized that he will accept the result of the vote, adding that all members are equally capable of leading.

The election will be held in the Plenary Chamber session convened in La Paz. The event will include the participation of all eligible members and is expected to conclude with an official announcement to the country. If consensus is not reached, the necessary sessions will be repeated, the stability of the TSE depends on the outcome of this process.

Gustavo Ávila, another member of the TSE, suggested keeping Hassenteufel in office. However, he acknowledged the legal limitations that prevent that possibility and highlighted Hassenteufel's leadership in times of crisis. In his opinion, a change could hinder the electoral organization, he called for acting with responsibility and caution in the election.

Hassenteufel acknowledged days ago that he can't run again, recalling that the law only allows one immediate reelection and he has already completed that cycle. "We fulfilled our mandate and it is appropriate for others to take over the leadership," he stated at a press conference. He thanked the trust he received during his administration and wished success to whoever succeeds him in the position.

From the Citizen Community bench, deputy Carlos Alarcón also called for safeguarding the independence of the TSE. He stated that "it can't be allowed to revert to times of political submission."

Alarcón also said that it is essential for the new president to guarantee transparent and free elections. He warned that a mistake in the election could affect the credibility of the 2025 process. He demanded responsibility and democratic commitment.

Finally, Tahuichi reaffirmed his willingness to assume the presidency if the Plenary Chamber so decides, assuring that his priority will be to conduct a clean and reliable electoral process. "I am willing to take on this challenge if my colleagues consider that I have the capacity," he stated. He emphasized that he will work in strict adherence to the law and reiterated his confidence in the institutional commitment of the other members.