11 Nov 2019 | 05:02 AM UTC
Bolivia: Violence reported in La Paz November 10 /update 27
Situation remains tense in Bolivia on November 10 following the resignation of President Evo Morales; violence and looting reports in La Paz
Event
The situation in Bolivia remains tense on Sunday, November 10, following the resignation of President Evo Morales. Violence and looting has been reported in La Paz on Sunday night (local time), with some government buildings and other institutions being targeted. At least 15 municipal buses operated by the Mayor’s Office of La Paz were set on fire in Chasquipampa. Local media sources have also reported some instances of looting in Cota Cota, Calacoto, and La Portada. In Cochabamba, unidentified armed men reportedly broke into Morales’s home. Further violence is possible in La Paz and other parts of the country into Monday, November 11.
Later on Sunday night, Morales posted on social media that an arrest warrant had been issued for him. However, police officials denied the claim, saying that no warrant has been issued. Associated demonstrations in support of Morales are possible in the coming days. Violent clashes between rival political supporters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
The political situation in Bolivia remains fluid. Demonstrations are possible 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.
