Bolivian Presidential Candidate Accuses Rivals of Coup Attempt Amidst Cochabamba Protests

Cochabamba Protests: Reyes Villa Alleges Destabilization Attempts Amidst Election Tensions Cochabamba, Bolivia – June 5, 2025 – Protests escalated in Cochabamba today, marking the third day of roadblocks and demonstrations. Manfred Reyes Villa, the city's mayor and presidential candidate for the Súmate party, addressed the situation in a televised interview, alleging attempts to destabilize the government ahead of the 2025 elections. "They are trying to pave the way for someone who, according to the law, cannot be president again," Reyes Villa stated, referring to former president Evo Morales. He further characterized the actions as a "coup attempt." The video footage accompanying the interview shows significant roadblocks and unrest in the city. Reyes Villa cited two court rulings barring Morales from future presidential candidacies, emphasizing that the current government must end democratically. He stated, "We live in a democracy, and this government must end democratically and hand over the country to the next government that is the result of the popular vote." The protests highlight the intense political climate in Bolivia as the 2025 elections approach. The situation remains tense, with concerns over the potential for further escalation.