Evo Morales refuses to surrender as Bolivia teeters on brink of civil unrest

Former Bolivian president Evo Morales remains hidden in the Chapare jungle, near the remote hamlet of Lauca Eñe, after an arrest warrant was issued for him. Around his hide‑out dozens of supporters, some armed, stand guard. Morales told AFP, “I will not surrender,” and warned that any military or police operation in the region would trigger a civil war, saying the people would resist.

President Rodrigo Paz’s centre‑right government has declared a state of emergency, deployed troops to the streets and accused Morales of fomenting the protests that have paralysed the country. Bolivia has been experiencing severe shortages of food, fuel and medicines for weeks due to road blockades, while unions and indigenous organisations demand Paz’s resignation. Morales denounced the legal case against him – alleged minor‑trafficking charges – as fabricated, claiming no evidence of drug trade or corruption.

He reiterated his political demands: prevent the privatization of electricity, water, natural resources, health and education. The standoff highlights Bolivia’s deep political polarization and the risk of escalating into wider armed conflict.