One week before Bolivia’s Elections: Economic distress shapes voter sentiment
One week ahead of Bolivia’s August 17 general elections, the political and economic landscape reflects a nation yearning for change.
After nearly 20 years under the Movimiento al Socialismo (MAS), Bolivia is facing one of its worst economic crises in decades. Inflation has soared to a 40-year high, the boliviano has collapsed, and shortages of essentials remain widespread.
The traditional MAS support base—primarily Indigenous Aymara and Quechua voters—is shifting away, driven by urgent concerns over livelihoods rather than identity politics, with many now casting “wallet votes” based on economic realities.
Meanwhile, the left is deeply fragmented: neither Evo Morales nor president Luis Arce is participating, and MAS is divided, while the right—though also somewhat split—gains ground, with candidates like Samuel Doria Medina and Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga leading in polls.
Overall, economic hardships have overshadowed ideological divides, making financial stability the decisive issue for Bolivian voters at this critical moment.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
