Bolivia’s Anez will struggle with authoritarian image

Subject

Growing tensions.

Significance

Protests have occurred in various parts of Bolivia this month, amid anger with the government’s COVID-19 lockdown strategy and demands that a date be set for a fresh general election. Interim President Jeanine Anez has refused to accept a law passed by Congress scheduling elections by early August at the latest. Bolivia’s COVID-19 death toll is low compared to those of neighbouring countries, but it is creeping up and the health system is poorly placed to respond.

Impacts

• Protests will sharpen the conflict between the government and the MAS, with other political actors mere bystanders.
• Internationally, Bolivia will face growing criticism for its apparent democratic backsliding.
• Limiting people to shopping only once a week arguably exacerbates contagion risks, encouraging people to congregate in marketplaces.
• Relaxing lockdown rules safely will be tricky; the country’s health system will struggle to cope with a spike in cases.
• The longer the lockdown lasts, the worse the economic outcome promises to be.