Shock in Bolivia: Coup or Not a Coup? On November 10, 2019, Bolivia was plunged into chaos as President Evo Morales resigned amid widespread protests and allegations of electoral fraud. The events that unfolded have left the nation reeling, with some labeling it a coup while others argue it was a necessary transition of power. Background: President Morales, a socialist leader, had been in power for 14 years. His reelection bid in October 2019 was met with accusations of rigging by the opposition. The Organization of American States (OAS) called for an audit of the election results, citing irregularities. The Tumultuous Resignation: As protests intensified and the police withdrew their support, Morales announced his resignation on national television. He accused the opposition and the military of staging a coup against him. However, the military denied any involvement, stating that it was merely “maintaining order and guaranteeing the stability of the nation.” Aftermath and Investigations: The resignation of Morales created a power vacuum. The Vice President and the President of the Senate also resigned, leaving Jeanine Áñez, a right-wing politician and second vice president of the Senate, to assume the presidency. Áñez declared herself interim president and vowed to hold new elections. However, her legitimacy has been disputed by Morales and his supporters. Investigations into the alleged electoral fraud and the events surrounding Morales’ resignation continue. Coup or Not a Coup? The question of whether the events in Bolivia constitute a coup is a matter of ongoing debate. Some argue that the military played a direct role in removing Morales from power and that the succession of Áñez was illegal. Others contend that Morales’ resignation was voluntary and that Áñez is a constitutionally appointed interim president. International Reactions: The international community has expressed concern over the situation in Bolivia. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has called for an independent investigation into the alleged human rights violations. The U.S. government has recognized Áñez as interim president, while other countries, such as Mexico and Cuba, have condemned the events as a coup. Conclusion: The events in Bolivia have had a profound impact on the country’s political and social landscape. The resignation of President Morales and the subsequent political turmoil have raised questions about the nature of democracy and the role of the military in politics. As investigations continue, the true nature of these events and their long-term consequences remain uncertain.Shock in Bolivia: Coup or Not a Coup? Bolivia has been plunged into turmoil after incumbent President Evo Morales was forced to resign amid allegations of electoral fraud. The events have triggered widespread protests and raised questions about whether it constitutes a coup d’état. On October 20, Morales declared victory in the presidential election, but allegations of voter irregularities sparked protests and unrest. The Organization of American States (OAS) released a report citing “clear irregularities” and called for new elections. Faced with growing pressure, Morales initially agreed to hold new elections but later announced his resignation, citing a need to restore peace. The military had also urged him to step down. The resignation led to a power vacuum, with various figures claiming legitimacy. Vice President Álvaro García Linera and Senate President Adriana Salvatierra also resigned. Jeanine Áñez, the second vice president of the Senate, declared herself interim president. The legitimacy of Áñez’s claim is contested. According to the Bolivian constitution, the line of succession should have passed to the head of Congress, which is currently occupied by Morales’s ally, Sergio Choque. However, Choque is also facing arrest warrants. Supporters of Morales have taken to the streets, demanding his return and decrying the events as a coup. They accuse the military and opposition politicians of conspiring to remove Morales from power. Human rights organizations have expressed concern about the excessive use of force by security forces. Several people have been killed and injured in the protests. International observers are closely monitoring the situation. The United Nations Secretary-General has called for dialogue and national unity. The United States has stated that it “will work with Bolivia’s interim government and other relevant actors in support of Bolivia’s democratic transition.” The outcome of this political crisis remains uncertain. The country faces a critical juncture as it seeks to determine its future through a process that is both legitimate and democratic.