11 Nov 2019 | 01:59 AM UTC
Bolivia: Celebratory rallies held in La Paz November 10 /update 26
Political opposition supporters continue to rally in La Paz and other cities following the resignation of President Evo Morales on November 10; multiple government officials reportedly arrested
Event
The situation in Bolivia remains uncertain and fluid on the night (local time) of Sunday, November 10, following the resignation of President Evo Morales earlier in the day. Political opposition supporters celebrated in the streets of La Paz and other parts of the country after Morales announced his resignation. In La Paz, large crowds were reported around Murillo Square and other government buildings. While the celebrations have largely remained peaceful, tensions are still high in the capital. A group of people reportedly lit 15 municipal transport buses on fire in Chasquipampa around 19:00. Violence between rival political supporters is also possible over the coming days.
Police officials have also confirmed that María Eugenia Choque, the president of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Bolivia (TSE), was arrested on Sunday evening following her resignation. According to the police, 36 TSE officials, including the former vice president tribunal, have been detained on charges of electoral crimes. Further arrests may occur as the situation evolves.
Demonstrations and political gatherings may continue over the coming hours and days amid a heightened security presence.
Context
Tensions have been high in the country since the Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Bolivia (TSE) halted its provisionary vote count on 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 October 21, the TSE updated the count, indicating that President Evo Morales secured 47.08 percent of the vote against his primary rival Carlos Mesa, who received 35.51 percent, preventing a runoff. Political opposition supporters are accusing the TSE of manipulating the vote in favor of Morales.
Advice
Individuals in La Paz and across Bolivia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence, prepare for disruptions to transportation and business in demonstration- and strike-affected areas, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
