Government Minister Roberto Ríos accused former dictator Evo Morales of using the peasants from the Tropic of Cochabamba as human shields. According to Ríos, Morales allegedly forced his supporters to take part in a permanent surveillance scheme.
The arrest warrant against him for a human trafficking case has remained in effect since October 2024. For this reason, the coca grower hasn't left Lauca Ñ, where he remains protected by his followers. Several leaders reported pressure, threats, and financial penalties to maintain that protection.
Ríos stated that the community members were forced to join the vigils under threat of losing land and plots. In addition, those who don't attend must pay high fines imposed by Morales's inner circle.
The conditions of those who keep watch are precarious and they are exposed to the elements, without institutional support. In contrast, Morales enjoys all services and comfort inside his residence. This situation has caused growing discontent in the coca grower sector.
Leaders who previously supported the former president have begun to question his continued presence in the region. Ríos revealed that several of them are considering requesting his departure from the Tropic of Cochabamba.
They claim economic harm, physical exhaustion, and abandonment of productive activities. Morales has turned the place into a defensive stronghold while promoting his disqualified candidacy. Internal tensions are increasing day by day, according to reports from the Government itself.
The security rings established around the individual accused of pedophilia are made up of community members with shields and homemade spears. These individuals have also created barriers with stakes and mounds of earth. Watchtowers and checkpoints built by the residents themselves have been reported.
Despite fear of reprisals, many are beginning to report the abuses committed. "They no longer want to continue being used as a human wall," Ríos stated at a press conference.
The former dictator's stronghold
The Tropic area still lacks police presence since the blockades last June. Law enforcement withdrew due to threats of state institution takeovers. This absence allowed Morales to consolidate territorial control without opposition.
The Executive considers it urgent to restore institutional order in that region. Security for the elections is at risk if action isn't taken in time, the minister warned.
Ríos indicated that mechanisms have already been activated to coordinate with the Electoral Body. The goal is to ensure that the August 17 elections proceed normally. The Government insists that no candidate can be above the law.
Morales, despite the accusations against him, insists on running as a candidate. This stance has worsened the conflict with national authorities.
