Bolivian President Arce Withdraws from 2025 Election

Bolivia: President Luis Arce Withdraws from 2025 Election LA PAZ, BOLIVIA – In a surprise announcement on May 13, 2025, Bolivian President Luis Arce declared his withdrawal from the upcoming presidential elections. Arce, in a strongly worded speech, cited "extreme polarization" within the country as his primary reason for stepping aside. He emphasized the need for unity to safeguard the Plurinational State. The move has sent shockwaves through Bolivian politics. "Hoy doy a conocer al pueblo boliviano con absoluta firmeza mi decisión de declinar mi candidatura", Arce stated, emphasizing his commitment to avoiding further division within the electorate. He directly challenged former president Evo Morales, whose candidacy is considered unconstitutional by many, to follow suit. Arce's withdrawal paves the way for Andrónico Rodríguez, a prominent figure within the Movement for Socialism (MAS), to become the sole leftist candidate in the August elections. The political landscape in Bolivia is now expected to undergo significant shifts in the coming months. The outcome of this unexpected development will shape the future direction of the country.