Jorge Tuto Quiroga criticizes Rodrigo Paz administration

Former President Jorge Tuto Quiroga has criticized the first year of Rodrigo Paz’s administration, describing it as a period of institutional failure and deteriorating democracy in Bolivia.

Quiroga noted a lack of progress on essential reforms, including changes to the Constitution and laws governing investment, hydrocarbons, mining, and agriculture. He also criticized the continued use of interim authorities in state institutions instead of permanent appointments based on merit and legislative consensus.

Regarding regional governance, Quiroga dismissed the government’s proposed 50/50 resource distribution scheme as insufficient for departments and municipalities. He further criticized the administration’s economic policies, specifically regarding fuel, which he claims have caused uncertainty and maintain a model of statism and centralism.

Quiroga cited several recent events as evidence of institutional decay, including the departure of Supreme Court President Romer Saucedo from the country, tensions between President Paz and Vice President Edmand Lara, and the self-proclamation of Roberto Castro as President of the Chamber of Deputies.