Presidential candidate Jhonny Fernández confirmed that he will visit the Tropic of Cochabamba. He will also go to Valle Alto and Valle Bajo, as well as two provinces in La Paz.
The tour will take place amid tensions over a possible rapprochement with Evo Morales. Fernández stated that his goal is "to close agreements" with social sectors. The visit comes just hours before the deadline to substitute candidates closes.
During a public event, Fernández assured that he will give "good news" to his supporters. He called his leaders to an urgent meeting in Santa Cruz. The announcement sparked speculation about a possible alliance with Evo Pueblo.
However, neither Fernández nor UCS have confirmed a formal pact. The political environment is filled with rumors and caution.
Wilma Alanoca, councilwoman from El Alto and a key figure in the "evismo," declared a few days ago that UCS is among the forces with which there is dialogue. She said that the Evo Pueblo movement is holding talks with at least three groups. She clarified that no agreement was signed with Fernández.
She insisted that there are "commissions working" on rapprochements. Evo Pueblo is still seeking a party registration to participate in the August 17 elections.
Fernández announced surprises
Fernández, meanwhile, did not deny contact with "evismo." He replied to criticism by assuring that his rivals "are afraid." He emphasized that his movement is building alliances with "the working class".
He also said that when his lists of parliamentary candidates and his running mate for the vice presidency are revealed, there will be surprises. He believes that the opposition fears the unity of the popular vote. He did not deny a possible partnership with Evo Morales.
Rumors escalated when it was mentioned that Morales could run for the Senate. Some reports claimed that there was already an agreement with UCS. Evo Pueblo's denial was immediate and categorical.
In a statement, they assured that they have not signed any political agreement. They also promised transparency if it happens.
Alanoca reaffirmed that there is still no alliance with any party. But she did not deny that there are contacts with UCS. She clarified that Evo Pueblo is talking with several groups due to the lack of its own legal status.
She also explained that grassroots organizations are analyzing options. She announced that there will soon be more certainty about the electoral path of "evismo."
Jhonny Fernández stated that social sectors choose their candidates. He affirmed that his alliance Fuerza del Pueblo only responds to those sectors. He said that he will not allow himself to be pressured by traditional leaders.
