Electoral controversy paralyses Bolivia
Demonstrations turn violent as president Evo Morales inches to disputed victory
Protests have erupted across several of Bolivia’s major cities following a verdict from the supreme electoral tribune (TSE) that President Evo Morales won the country’s national election and a record fourth consecutive term in office. Anger and confusion among supporters of leading opposition candidate Carlos Mesa boiled over as an early poll, accounting for 84pc of the vote, indicated that the two nominees were heading for a run-off on 15 December. Initial figures showed Morales with 42.3pc of the vote versus 41.7pc for Mesa. The TSE then unexpectedly suspended coverage of the election for around 24 hours. With 95pc of the ballot calculated, the electoral body revealed that the result
Also in this section
22 January 2026
As Saudi Arabia pushes mining as a new pillar of its economy, Saudi Aramco is positioning itself at the intersection of hydrocarbons, minerals and industrial policy
22 January 2026
New long-term deal is latest addition to country’s rapidly evolving supply portfolio as it eyes role as regional gas hub
21 January 2026
Petroleum Economist takes a look at the critical developments that look set to govern the course of the market for this year
20 January 2026
The ripple effects of US refiners switching to Venezuela grades will be felt from Canada to China and everywhere in between
