As Bolivia approaches a pivotal moment in its democratic journey, citizens prepare to cast their votes in an election that will not only determine the next president but also shape the country’s legislative future. Scheduled for Sunday, the polling stations opened at 8 AM local time and will close at 4 PM, with preliminary results anticipated after 9 PM. This election marks a critical juncture for the Movement for Socialism (MAS), the incumbent party that has governed for nearly 20 years. Recent polling trends suggest that MAS may face its first electoral defeat, chiefly due to a deepening economic crisis and internal divisions within the leftist coalition.

Notably, the latest Ipsos MORI survey indicates a shift in voter sentiment, with MAS-affiliated candidates trailing behind right-wing opponents by approximately 10 percentage points. The political landscape features eight presidential candidates, spanning the spectrum from far-right to various leftist ideologies. Leading the race are two major contenders: Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga, a former interim president, and Samuel Doria Medina, a successful businessman and former planning minister. Both candidates are neck-and-neck, each bringing unique perspectives to the campaign.

Former President Evo Morales, a significant figure in Bolivian politics for 15 years, has been barred from the race, while outgoing socialist President Luis Arce has opted not to seek re-election. The official candidate for the MAS is Eduardo del Castillo, who is endorsed by Arce, while Andronico Rodriguez is running independently, having distanced himself from the party.

Morales remains active in Bolivian politics from his stronghold amid the coca-growing regions, advocating for invalid votes among his constituents, expressing that a lack of participation reflects dissent against the current administration. Meanwhile, Morales remains in a position where returning to the public eye could lead to legal challenges, though he has steadfastly denied any wrongdoing.

The stakes are high as Bolivia grapples with what many are calling the worst economic crisis in a generation, characterized by soaring inflation, currently estimated at nearly 25%, and critical shortages of essential resources such as fuel and currency. The two leading candidates have pledged to implement significant changes to the economic landscape, with Medina promising to curtail inflation and restore essential goods within a short timeframe, while Quiroga emphasizes a complete overhaul of the systemic issues at play.

Bolivia has experienced notable economic growth and substantial advancements in indigenous rights during Morales’s tenure, particularly following the nationalization of the gas sector, which financed numerous social programs. However, inadequate investment strategies have led to a decline in gas revenue, further complicating the current economic crisis. As citizens take to the polls, the outcomes could reshape not only Bolivia’s political future but also its economic trajectory and social fabric.

Results will be finalized within a week of the election, and if no candidate secures a majority, a runoff will be held on October 19. The election of all 26 senators and 130 deputies will also play a crucial role in determining the direction Bolivia will take in the coming years.

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