Bolivian legislators criticize President Rodrigo Paz over political alliances

Bolivian legislators and opposition leaders are criticizing President Rodrigo Paz following his recent national address, in which he stated he intends to govern through institutions rather than political parties.

Luis Vásquez, spokesperson for the Libre alliance, accused the President of attempting to solve corruption through further corruption by encouraging 'transfugismo'—the political defection of legislators to support government structural laws. Vásquez argued that the administration is replicating the governance model used by the Movimiento Al Socialismo (MAS), which he claims co-opted opposition through concessions and prebends.

Legislators including Senator Tomasa Yarhui and Deputy Cecilia Vargas have characterized the President's stance as an affront to democracy. Yarhui noted that the President's rhetoric ignores the essential role of the Legislative Assembly in political debate, while Vargas warned that the approach threatens democratic principles. Senator Cesar Mentasti suggested a political expansion meeting to facilitate necessary agreements on critical sectors such as mining, hydrocarbons, and investment.