Bolivia votes for change: end of two decades of socialist government

This Sunday, October 19, 2025, Bolivia celebrated its first presidential runoff in two decades, marking a milestone in the country's politics. The candidates in contention were centrist senator Rodrigo Paz and conservative former president Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga, who represent a shift to the right after 20 years of dominance by the Movement for Socialism (MAS).

Both candidates have proposed significant economic reforms, including the elimination of fuel subsidies and the implementation of austerity policies. Additionally, they have shown interest in strengthening relations with the United States, possibly allowing the return of the DEA to the country. Final results are expected in the coming hours, but this electoral process has already been considered a turning point in Bolivia's recent political history.