Bolivia: Government requests audit of presidential election vote tally October 22 /update 4

Event

On Tuesday, October 22, the Bolivian government requested that the Organization of American States (OAS) conduct an audit of Sunday's presidential election vote tally, vowing to respect the outcome of the election. Demonstrations continued across Bolivia for a second consecutive day on Tuesday, fueled by accusations of irregularities in Sunday's election. Significant transportation and business disruptions were reported in La Paz as residents, anticipating a protracted political crisis and associated unrest, lined up at markets and gas stations to stockpile basic necessities.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in the coming hours and days across La Paz and other major urban areas. Further protests are possible - particularly in and around the capital. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Context

The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) halted its provisionary vote count on Sunday, October 20, after 83 percent of the ballot was completed. Initial results indicated that President Evo Morales was short of securing the 10-percentage point lead needed to prevent a runoff election. However, on Monday, October 21, the TSE updated the count, indicating that President Evo Morales secured 46.85 percent of the vote against his primary rival Carlos Mesa, who received 36.73 percent, preventing a runoff. Political opposition supporters are accusing the TSE of manipulating the vote in favor of Morales.

Advice

Individuals in Bolivia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid any protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.