Evo Morales Resigns From MAS: A Major Political Split in Bolivia

Evo Morales has officially resigned from the ruling MAS party to pursue the presidency with the Front for Victory. His decision stems from conflicts with President Luis Arce over corruption allegations within the government. Following his departure, many MAS members have begun to support Morales, while he faces legal challenges related to his presidency and a controversial constitutional ruling on re-election.

Cochabamba, Bolivia (EFE) – Evo Morales, former President of Bolivia from 2006 to 2019, has formally resigned from the ruling party Movement Towards Socialism (MAS) via his lawyers at the Electoral Tribunal (TSE). Having led MAS for over three decades, Morales now seeks the presidency with the Front for Victory (FPV) on August 17, following conflicts with current President Luis Arce regarding government policies and party leadership.

Héctor Rodríguez, who filed Morales’ resignation, emphasized the move was intended to uphold the principles of what MAS refers to as the Democratic and Cultural Revolution initiated in 2005. “We cannot be part of a government that has been corrupted and that has betrayed basic principles,” he stated.

Initially, Morales attempted to submit his resignation through a delegate, but the TSE rejected it, citing procedural necessity for personal submission. The TSE subsequently clarified that a notarized power of attorney could suffice. Morales has faced political turmoil since the 2019 crisis, which led to his resignation and subsequent exile.

Since October 2024, Morales has been in the Tropic of Cochabamba, surrounded by loyal supporters amid fears of an arrest warrant linked to serious allegations. The political landscape shifted significantly when Morales lost his leadership position within MAS in November 2024 due to a congress dominated by Arce supporters.

In the wake of Morales’ resignation, numerous MAS members loyal to him started departing the party, although some pro-Morales lawmakers are remaining to protect their parliamentary positions. Reports indicate that approximately 1,686 members have left MAS. Morales’ supporters are encouraged to submit their resignations up until the day before the general elections.

Despite a constitutional ruling from 2023 that prohibits indefinite re-election, Morales has asserted his eligibility to run for president again. His previous term ended amidst allegations of electoral fraud, a claim contested by his opposition. The fractures within MAS have deepened since the political crisis initiated by his fledgling presidency in 2019.

Evo Morales’ resignation from the MAS marks a significant political shift in Bolivia, as he embarks on a new presidential campaign with the Front for Victory. This separation is rooted in ideological conflicts with current leadership and reflects broader dissent within the party. Meanwhile, Morales intends to challenge a constitutional ruling on presidential term limits as he seeks to return to power after years of political turmoil.

Original Source: efe.com