Bolivia’s Runoff: Competing Visions From Two Conservative Contenders

For the first time in two decades, Bolivia is heading into a presidential runoff without the ruling Movement for Socialism (MAS) on the ballot. The party that dominated politics since Evo Morales first came to power in 2006 has been pushed aside by public discontent over a deep economic crisis and internal divisions.

Voters will now choose between two opposition figures on October 19: centrist senator Rodrigo Paz Pereira and former president Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga. Both candidates come from the right of the political spectrum, yet their approaches to rescuing the country’s fragile economy differ in tone and scope.

Rodrigo Paz Pereira: “Capitalism for All”

At 57, Paz Pereira has emerged as the surprise frontrunner. An economist and son of former president Jaime Paz Zamora, he ran a low-key campaign under the Christian Democratic Party. Despite polling behind in early surveys, his promises of moderation and pragmatism resonated with voters seeking alternatives to state-heavy management.

His platform centers on economic inclusion. He has pledged tax reforms to stimulate national industry, free importation of essential goods to counter shortages, and policies designed to benefit middle- and low-income sectors. Paz emphasizes decentralization, advocating a fairer redistribution of the national budget between central and regional governments. He frames his project as a path toward a more open market economy—without abandoning a social focus.

Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga: Shock Therapy for the Economy

Quiroga, 65, represents a more traditional conservative agenda. Once vice president under Hugo Banzer and head of state from 2001 to 2002, he is a veteran of Bolivian politics. This time, he campaigns as a self-proclaimed liberal promising a “seismic change” for the economy.

His program echoes the austerity measures promoted by Argentina’s Javier Milei: deep spending cuts, sweeping privatization of state companies, and a drastic reduction of the fiscal deficit. Quiroga argues that only a return to free-market orthodoxy and international openness can restore stability. His message appeals to business sectors and urban voters frustrated by years of subsidies and growing public debt.

A Country at a Turning Point

Both contenders promise to dismantle MAS’s state-centered model and steer Bolivia toward a market-driven economy. Yet the contrast is clear: Paz Pereira offers a moderate adjustment with social safeguards, while Quiroga pushes for a radical break with the past.

The October runoff will determine not only who governs Bolivia for the next five years but also how sharply the country pivots away from its leftist legacy.