Rodrigo Paz Wins Bolivia's Presidency, Ending MAS Rule

La Paz (Bolivia), Oct 20 (AP) — Rodrigo Paz, a centrist senator relatively unknown on the national stage, has won Bolivia's presidential election, according to preliminary results. His victory marks a shift from the 20-year rule of the Movement Toward Socialism (MAS) party, as he captures the appeal of voters frustrated by the economic crisis.

The president of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, Óscar Hassenteufel, confirmed that Paz's lead over his opponent, former right-wing President Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga, was “irreversible.”

Preliminary results showed Paz securing 54 percent of the vote, while Quiroga garnered 45 percent.

Addressing his supporters, Paz declared, “This will be a government that brings solutions. Bolivia breathes winds of change and renewal to move forward.”

Quiroga, accepting defeat, called Paz to offer his congratulations despite jeers and cries of fraud from his audience, urging calm and recognition of the results to avoid national instability.

Paz gained popularity among working-class and rural voters disillusioned by the MAS party's spending but cautious of Quiroga's significant departure from its social policies.

This victory sets Bolivia on an uncertain path as Paz aims to implement changes not seen since the 2005 election of Evo Morales, MAS's founder and Bolivia's first Indigenous president.

Paz intends to dismantle Bolivia's fixed exchange rate, phase out substantial fuel subsidies, and decrease heavy public investment, redirecting the MAS economic framework that has been dominant for two decades.

Yet, he promises to maintain MAS benefits and pursue a gradual approach to market reforms to avoid economic turmoil that previously enraged Bolivians.

Amid celebrations, supporters in La Paz took to the streets with fireworks and honking car horns, chanting, “The people, united, will never be defeated!”

Roger Carrillo, a volunteer with Paz's party, expressed joy from eastern Bolivia where he participated in a celebratory caravan, acknowledging the work ahead but savoring the moment.

Paz, committed to steering clear of the IMF, plans to fund his initiatives through anti-corruption measures, spending cuts, and encouraging the reinvestment of USD savings.

Critics, however, argue that his financial strategies appear vague and politically motivated, with some voters like Rodrigo Tribeño feeling the need for more significant change.

Despite being the son of a former president and benefiting from a legislative and mayoral career, Paz emerged unexpectedly as a top contender, appealing to merchants and entrepreneurs.

The selection of Edman Lara as his running mate injected excitement into the race. The ex-policeman gained popularity on social media for his anti-corruption stance.

Although divisive, Lara's fiery promises of universal income and increased pensions resonated with many, despite forcing Paz into campaign damage control.

Post-election, Lara called for unity and reconciliation, inviting comparisons to Paz's measured tone.

Many Bolivians expressed that they cast their votes motivated more by Lara's charisma and leadership qualities, perceiving him as the de facto leader in the duo.

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