Former Bolivian president Evo Morales has re-emerged at the center of Bolivia’s escalating political turmoil, declaring that the demands fueling widespread protests against President Rodrigo Paz will only be achieved if his movement returns to power. Speaking from his stronghold in the coca-growing Chapare region, Morales rejected accusations that he is directing the unrest but offered a stark assessment of the crisis gripping the country just months into Paz’s presidency.
In an interview with El País, Morales argued that the demonstrations and road blockades spreading across Bolivia represent a broader indigenous uprising against what he described as a neoliberal model and a return to policies that indigenous movements have long opposed. The comments come as Paz faces mounting pressure from social unrest that has rapidly become the most serious challenge of his six-month-old administration.
Morales, who governed Bolivia from 2006 to 2019 and became the country’s first indigenous president, remains a deeply influential figure despite being out of office for years and facing legal proceedings related to allegations of human trafficking and sexual abuse. He rejects the charges, claiming the judicial process lacks legitimacy and insisting that the case against him is politically motivated.
From Chapare, where he says he spends his time farming avocados, raising fish, exercising, and playing chess, Morales has watched events unfold while authorities portray him as the principal force behind the protests. He denied any direct role in organizing the demonstrations, arguing instead that public anger stems from unmet promises made by the current government.
According to Morales, dissatisfaction has grown over economic conditions, fuel shortages, and government policies that critics claim favor private interests. He accused the administration of advancing measures related to mining, gas, energy, and lithium that he says amount to privatization efforts, while also alleging closer cooperation with the United States on strategic resources. The government has presented its policies as part of broader economic and development initiatives.
As tensions rise, Morales warned that deploying security forces would not resolve the crisis. He argued that any attempt to suppress the protests through emergency measures could provoke a stronger reaction, particularly in Bolivia’s indigenous regions. Referring to discussions surrounding a proposed state of emergency, he expressed concern over provisions related to security operations and the use of force, while insisting that a political solution remains the only viable path to stability.
Morales suggested that a transition of power followed by new elections could defuse the confrontation, though he acknowledged that such decisions ultimately rest with political institutions and the broader public. His remarks place him in direct opposition to a government that maintains it was democratically elected and has a mandate to govern.
The former president’s comments also highlighted the enduring divisions that have shaped Bolivian politics since the political crisis of 2019, when he left office amid contested circumstances and allegations of electoral irregularities. Morales described his removal as a coup driven by foreign interests and linked to Bolivia’s vast lithium reserves, a claim that remains central to his political narrative.
Despite persistent speculation about a possible political comeback, Morales stopped short of confirming any presidential ambitions. Instead, he portrayed himself as a reluctant political figure urged by supporters to remain involved. He said grassroots organizations would ultimately decide who represents the indigenous and peasant movement in future elections, though he acknowledged that no clear successor has yet emerged.
His influence remains significant among loyal supporters, particularly in rural and indigenous communities where he continues to command strong political backing. Morales argued that the movement he helped build still represents a major force in Bolivian politics and suggested that many supporters see his continued involvement as essential to its future.
The interview also touched on the legal case hanging over the former president. Morales reiterated his refusal to appear before the court handling the allegations against him, claiming there was no due process and no evidence supporting the accusations. He argued that authorities are using the case to neutralize him politically, while prosecutors maintain that the investigation falls within their legal authority.
At 66, Morales presented himself as a veteran political figure still determined to remain active despite years of controversy, exile, and legal battles. Speaking about his health and daily routine, he described maintaining a rigorous exercise regimen and recovering from a recent bout of chikungunya. Yet his strongest message was political rather than personal. As Bolivia confronts growing unrest and uncertainty, Morales told El País that the objectives of his movement remain unchanged, declaring that “only when we are in political power will our demands be fulfilled.”
