Bolivia's Political Crisis: Morales Resigns, Arce Catacora Takes Office
Resignation of Evo Morales
In the wake of widespread protests and allegations of electoral fraud, Bolivia's President Evo Morales resigned on November 10, 2019, after 14 years in office. Morales, who had been seeking a fourth term, claimed that the election had been rigged against him.
Luis Arce Catacora Takes Office
In the aftermath of Morales' resignation, the Bolivian Congress appointed Luis Arce Catacora, a former economy minister, as the new president. Arce Catacora, who is a member of Morales' Movement for Socialism (MAS) party, was sworn in on November 12, 2019.
Ongoing Crisis
The political crisis in Bolivia continues, with supporters of Morales protesting against the new government and demanding new elections. The protests have been met with a crackdown by security forces, resulting in several deaths and injuries.
International Response
The international community has expressed concern over the political crisis in Bolivia, and has called for a peaceful resolution. The United States has condemned the violence and called for new elections, while the European Union has urged all parties to engage in dialogue.
Background of the Crisis
The political crisis in Bolivia has its roots in the October 20, 2019 presidential election. Morales, who had been in power since 2006, was seeking a fourth term, which is not permitted under the Bolivian constitution. The election results were disputed, with the opposition alleging widespread fraud.
Protests and Violence
The allegations of fraud sparked widespread protests, which turned violent in some cases. Security forces used tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters, and several people were killed and injured in the clashes.
Morales' Resignation
Faced with growing international pressure and the threat of further violence, Morales resigned on November 10, 2019. He claimed that the election had been rigged against him and that he was being forced out of office by a coup.
Arce Catacora's Presidency
Luis Arce Catacora, a former economy minister, was sworn in as the new president of Bolivia on November 12, 2019. Arce Catacora has promised to restore order and stability to the country, and to hold new elections.
Ongoing Crisis
The political crisis in Bolivia continues, with supporters of Morales protesting against the new government and demanding new elections. The protests have been met with a crackdown by security forces, resulting in several deaths and injuries.
International Response
The international community has expressed concern over the political crisis in Bolivia, and has called for a peaceful resolution. The United States has condemned the violence and called for new elections, while the European Union has urged all parties to engage in dialogue.
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