Former Bolivian President Morales Survives Alleged Assassination Attempt
Accusations Fly as Former President Calls Attack a Threat to Indigenous Movement
- Morales' convoy was shot at in Chapare, but he emerged unharmed
- Morales accused President Luis Arce of orchestrating the attack
- Supporters of Morales gathered to demand military withdrawal
Former Bolivian President Evo Morales was fired upon on Sunday while traveling through Chapare, a region where he has significant influence.
Fortunately, he was unharmed, but he accused current President Luis Arce of orchestrating the attack—an allegation Arce promptly denied, promising “an immediate and thorough investigation.”
The incident occurred near a military barracks when two unidentified vehicles reportedly blocked Morales’ convoy, causing it to slow down.
“They started shooting… 14 shots hit the van,” Morales recounted to Radio Kawsachun Coca, describing the harrowing experience. His driver sustained a minor head injury, and video footage showed bullet holes in the windows as Morales called for reinforcements, crouching to avoid the gunfire.
In response, President Arce condemned the attack as “presumed” and dismissed Morales’ claims as unfounded, arguing, “It is not with the search for the dead that problems are solved,” and criticizing the “tendentious speculation” surrounding the incident.
This attack has intensified existing tensions in Bolivia. Supporters of Morales, including coca growers, gathered near the military barracks, demanding the removal of military forces and alleging that the attackers’ vehicles were concealed within the barracks.
The rift between Morales and Arce has become increasingly pronounced, with Morales accusing Arce of betrayal and likening his behavior to that of former Ecuadorian President Lenín Moreno.
“This isn’t just against Evo; it’s against the indigenous movement,” Morales asserted.
Former Minister Juan Ramón Quintana warned that Morales’ life is in jeopardy and called for international assistance to ensure his safety. Despite the threat, Morales remains defiant, stating, “I am not hiding; I have no reason to escape.”
