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Movement Towards Socialism (MAS)

Beyond Defeat In Bolivia: Limits Of Left Electoral Strategy In Latin America

Bolivia’s left lost big in Sunday’s election, and a lot of the analysis in progressive circles has focused solely on the feud between former president Evo Morales and sitting president, Luis Arce. Morales was barred from running in the elections by Arce’s government and subsequently called for a null or blank vote in the contest. On Sunday, August 17, two right-wing candidates, Rodrigo Paz and Jorge Quiroga, emerged victorious, and they will proceed to the second round in October. The feud between the two former comrades definitely played a factor in the demise of the once-vibrant and electorally successful party, MAS (Movement Towards Socialism). But the real story and the bigger lesson for the Latin American left is about more than just political rivalries. The roots of this defeat are deeper.

Five Myths About The Crisis Of The Left In Bolivia

I have read with great attention many comrades, people whom I love and respect a lot, simplifying the situation of the crisis of the left in Bolivia. I know that these criticisms come from honest people, born out of genuine concerns and solidarity with the Bolivian people. However, a series of common points emerge that deserve an explanation, given the unique characteristics of Bolivia, its social movements, and its left. It is not egos, lack of generosity, or meanness that marked the break between the social movements and the government of Luis Arce. This is a reductionism that hides a lack of understanding of what the MAS, the political instrument of the social organizations that came to conquer political power in Bolivia in December 2005, means.
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