Centrist candidate Rodrigo Paz has won Bolivia’s presidential election, ending nearly two decades of rule by the Movement for Socialism (MAS) party.
With 97% of votes counted, Paz secured 54.6%, defeating right-wing former president Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga, who polled 45.4%, according to the Supreme Electoral Tribunal.
Announcing the results, tribunal head Oscar Hassenteufel said Paz’s lead was “irreversible.” Quiroga later conceded, congratulating his rival and urging supporters to respect the process.
Paz, a senator and son of ex-president Jaime Paz Zamora, ran on a “capitalism for all” platform, pledging to spur growth, attract foreign investment, and maintain social welfare programs.
In his victory speech, Paz said: “We are closing one cycle and opening another. It’s time to unite and reconcile.”
His win signals a major political shift in Bolivia, which is battling fuel shortages, dollar scarcity, and rising inflation. Paz has vowed to cut fuel subsidies, ease credit for small businesses, reduce tariffs, and tackle corruption.
Voter turnout was estimated at around 85–89%, reflecting strong public engagement in the historic election.
