Bolivia’s Crucial 2025 General Election Amid Soaring Inflation

Bolivia is holding one of its most crucial general elections on August 17, 2025, as the country faces its worst economic crisis in decades. Inflation has soared to nearly 25%, sparking shortages of food, fuel, and other essentials. For many Bolivians, shrinking bread loaves and rising prices have become a daily reminder of the deepening crisis.

For almost 20 years, Bolivia has been governed by the leftist Movement for Socialism (MAS), once led by Evo Morales. However, Morales is now barred from the presidency and has urged his supporters to spoil ballots. His influence is fading, and this election could mark the end of two decades of socialist dominance.

The main challengers are Samuel Doria Medina, a businessman promising to stabilize the economy within 100 days, and Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga, a conservative ex-president calling for tough reforms. Neither candidate has crossed the 30% mark in polls, meaning the race could head to a runoff on October 19, 2025.

Bolivia’s constitution requires a candidate to win with more than 50% of the vote—or at least 40% with a 10-point lead. Otherwise, the top two will face off in a second round.

Voter turnout is expected to be high despite Morales’s boycott call. Initial results will arrive tonight, but official confirmation may take a week. Whoever wins will face the urgent task of restoring economic stability and addressing public frustration.

This election is not only about leadership—it could reshape Bolivia’s future political and economic direction.