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OPINION APRIL 04, 2025 | The Indian Eye 12

The MAS has been in power since
2005, implementing various econom-
ic and social policies that initially re-
sulted in significant economic growth
and greater income equality. Howev-
er, it has faced criticism for failing to
adequately address issues such as in-
flation, foreign exchange shortages,
and declining natural gas production.
The split within the MAS be-
tween factions loyal to President Luis
Arce and Evo Morales transcends
mere ideological differences and ap-
proaches to governance. Morales is
still viewed by many as the true pa-
triarch of the party, a leader who suc-
cessfully united coca farmers, peas-
ants, and workers to create a strong
platform. In contrast, President Arce
is seen as a technocrat and an astute
statesman who effectively managed
the pandemic and is well-regarded
among urban voters. The MAS’s elec-
toral success is largely due to its ap-
peal to a broad audience, encompass- In recent years, opposition parties and organizations in Bolivia have gained strength, seeking to capitalize on the divisions within the MAS
ing both rural and urban electorates, (Agency/File photo)
which is critical given Bolivia’s pro-
nounced social and ethnic divisions.
However, the deep rift between ing the opposition a renewed oppor- Dr. Arnab Chakrabarty is a Research Fellow at Indian Council of World Affairs
the two factions has hampered the tunity to contest the 2025 elections (ICWA). The views expressed are personal.
MAS’s ability to function as a cohe- and present an alternative. However, This article first appeared in the web articles section of the website (www.icwa.in)
sive political force. This division has it is ironic that Evo Morales, Boliv- of Indian Council of World Affairs, New Delhi, on March 20, 2025
been exacerbated by two factors: ia’s first indigenous president and
Morales’s departure from the party the founder of the MAS, resigned
to join the People’s Force (FPV) and from the party, which could signal a
the emergence of a renewed oppo- gradual change of guard in MAS’s
sition, particularly with the upcom- leadership and reform within the
ing elections in August 2025. Mo- party. Regardless of the outcome of
rales’s move to the FPV, along with the presidential elections in 2025, the
a notable number of supporters, may MAS’s contribution will remain sig-
negatively impact MAS’s electoral nificant in Bolivia’s political history,
prospects in regions with higher ru- having been in power since 2005 and
ral and indigenous populations. The overseeing crucial economic and so-
split has led to repeated strikes and cial reforms. In the face of a rising
blockades, disrupting government opposition, MAS will have to prove
services and contributing to econom- its mettle in the forthcoming elec-
ic distress. Although Bolivia’s Con- tions and President Are will have
stitutional Court has barred Morales to deliver on his promises to fight
from running in the upcoming pres- against the incumbency.
idential elections, he continues to Future Outcomes
wield significant influence, posing a
challenge for the MAS. he MAS is now facing in-
In recent years, opposition par- creased competition from a
ties and organizations in Bolivia have Trevitalized opposition and
gained strength, seeking to capitalize from Evo Morales, who still wields
on the divisions within the MAS. The considerable influence in rural and
previously fragmented opposition indigenous communities. Bolivia is
has become more cohesive, fueled grappling with economic challenges,
by the country’s worsening economic and there is a palpable sense of ideo-
crisis, marked by inflation, shortages logical fatigue among voters due to
of consumer goods, and the impact unmet promises. Additionally, there
of strikes and blockades by opposing is a divide within the ruling party and
factions within the MAS. There is a a partially paralyzed administration,
shortage of foreign reserves, and the which enhance the chances for the
energy sector, which once fueled Bo- opposition coalition. In this context,
livia’s growth, is now troubled. the 2025 presidential elections will be
The political divide within the critical for the MAS, as its prospects
MAS highlights its vulnerability, giv- appear challenging.

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