On the 23rd of November, the Bolivian Congress passed a bill to make way for fresh elections in the country. This comes after weeks of unrest following the hotly contested October 20 presidential election.

Backstory

Longtime president Evo Morales was declared the winner of the October election but allegations of vote-rigging and other election irregularities marred the exercise. The situation quickly descended to violent protests.

After weeks of protests and prodding from the army, Morales announced his resignation on November 10th, claiming he had been ousted in a coup. He has since sought refuge in Mexico.

Morales’ departure from the government, however, did little to quell the crisis. Protests continued to rock the country as clashes between security agents and Morales’ supporters have left many injured. Over 30 people have been reportedly killed since the crisis began.

Provisions of the Bill

• Annuls the October 20th presidential election.
• Limits presidential terms to two, hence barring Morales from contesting in the election.
• Appoint a new election board to oversee fresh elections.

Welcome Development

The success of the bill in the legislature gave new hope for an end to the unrest. The bill was passed after negotiations between the interim government and Morales’ supporters. His Movement for Socialism (MAS) party command majority in the Bolivian legislature, making their support crucial. Al Jazeera reported that some roadblocks by pro-Morales protesters have already been lifted.

A statement from the UN Secretary-General also expressed support for the new legislation.

Interim President Jeanine Anez has formally assented the bill into law and a schedule for the conduct of a fresh election is expected to be announced soon by the newly constituted election board.