March for Bolivia's Ex-President Morales Devolves into Clashes, Escalating Crisis

Key Points

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A march by supporters of former Bolivian President Evo Morales descended into violence and clashes with police on Monday, leaving at least 20 people injured.

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Morales, who was forced to resign and flee the country in November amid widespread protests, had called on his supporters to march on the capital, La Paz, to demand his reinstatement.

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The clashes marked a significant escalation in the political crisis that has gripped Bolivia since Morales's departure, and raised fears of further instability in the country.

Background

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Evo Morales, Bolivia's first indigenous president, was elected in 2006 and served three terms in office. During his presidency, he implemented a number of social and economic reforms that improved the lives of many Bolivians.

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However, Morales's popularity began to decline in recent years, and he faced growing opposition from conservative groups and businesses.

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In October 2019, Morales was re-elected to a fourth term in a controversial election that was marred by allegations of fraud. The results sparked widespread protests that eventually forced Morales to resign and flee to Mexico.

March and Clashes

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On Monday, Morales's supporters began marching from the city of El Alto towards La Paz. The marchers demanded Morales's reinstatement and accused the interim government of being illegitimate.

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As the marchers approached La Paz, they were met by police who used tear gas and water cannons to disperse them. The protesters responded by throwing rocks and bottles at the police.

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The clashes left at least 20 people injured, including several police officers. The violence also caused damage to property in the area.

Escalating Crisis

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The clashes between Morales's supporters and the police marked a significant escalation in the political crisis that has gripped Bolivia since Morales's departure.

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The violence raised fears of further instability in the country, which has a history of political turmoil and violence.

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The interim government condemned the violence and vowed to restore order. However, it is unclear how it will be able to do so, given the deep divisions that exist in Bolivian society.

International Reaction

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The international community has expressed concern about the violence in Bolivia and called for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

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The United States has condemned the violence and called on all parties to respect the rule of law.

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The European Union has also expressed concern about the violence and urged restraint from all sides.

Conclusion

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The march for Evo Morales in Bolivia devolved into clashes with police, leaving at least 20 people injured and escalating the political crisis in the country.

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The international community has expressed concern about the violence and called for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

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It remains to be seen how the interim government will be able to restore order and prevent further violence.