Rodrigo Paz Triumphs in Bolivia’s Presidential Election Upset

LA PAZ, Bolivia — In a surprising turn of events, Rodrigo Paz has emerged victorious in Bolivia’s presidential runoff, marking the first time in two decades that a conservative candidate has won the presidency. Previously a little-known opposition senator, Paz defeated former President Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga in the election held on October 29, 2023. He will assume office as Bolivia’s head of state on November 8, 2023.

Paz’s victory comes at a critical time for Bolivia, which is grappling with severe economic challenges following 20 years of governance by the Movement Toward Socialism (MAS) party, founded by former President Evo Morales. Once thriving during the commodities boom, the MAS government has faced significant economic downturns, particularly as natural gas exports have dwindled. Voters, frustrated by chronic shortages of U.S. dollars and fuel, turned to Paz in hopes of navigating the country out of its worst economic crisis in four decades.

The 58-year-old senator proposed a gradual approach to economic reform, contrasting with Quiroga’s more aggressive strategies, which included reliance on an International Monetary Fund bailout. In a nation where many feel overlooked by political elites, Paz’s centrist platform resonated with a diverse electorate, including working-class and Indigenous communities.

Paz has a notable political lineage; he is the son of former President Jaime Paz Zamora, who governed Bolivia from 1989 to 1993. His father’s political journey began in a leftist party before he transitioned to support conservative economic policies, a path that Rodrigo Paz has also followed. Born in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, Paz spent part of his childhood there before returning to Bolivia, where he has navigated a complex political landscape.

As a mayor of Tarija from 2015 to 2020, Paz implemented modernization projects that aimed to enhance the city’s infrastructure. However, his tenure was marked by controversy, particularly due to public sector layoffs that drew ire from unions. Despite these challenges, his political career progressed, leading to his election as senator and ultimately to his presidential candidacy.

Paz’s ascent to the presidency was anything but straightforward. During the initial stages of the campaign, he struggled to gain traction, often polling near the bottom of a crowded field. His late selection of Edman Lara, a former police captain known for his anti-corruption stance, as running mate proved crucial. Lara’s personal narrative and commitment to transparency resonated with voters, bolstering Paz’s campaign.

Throughout the election, Paz and Lara adopted an unconventional approach, focusing on grassroots campaigning that emphasized direct engagement with voters. Their message of “capitalism for all” and promises of cash handouts for the poor attracted a wide audience, despite the pair’s plans to eliminate fuel subsidies and scale back public spending. They offered reassurances that reforms would be implemented gradually, a strategy that appealed to a population wary of rapid economic changes.

In a significant shift in foreign relations, Paz has expressed a desire to improve ties with the United States, which had soured under Morales. His outreach included a visit to Washington prior to the runoff, where he articulated his vision for Bolivia’s future. Following the election, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hailed Paz’s victory as a transformative opportunity, emphasizing potential cooperation on shared priorities such as immigration and regional security.

As Bolivia prepares for this new chapter under Rodrigo Paz, the country stands at a crossroads, hoping for stability and economic recovery after years of political turmoil. The upcoming administration will need to address the pressing concerns of its citizens, navigating the challenges left by the previous government while fulfilling the promises made during the campaign.