

Bolivian Analyst Warns Against Triumphalism and Political Abuse in Campaigns
Santa Cruz, Bolivia – Political analyst Rolando Schrupp recently offered a critical perspective on the current state of political campaigns in Bolivia, cautioning against the pitfalls of overconfidence and the abandonment of substantive electoral strategies. Speaking on eju.tv, Schrupp emphasized the necessity for political actors to engage in "real campaigns" centered on concrete proposals, rather than resorting to tactics of attrition or coercion. "The great danger is that they become triumphalists and forget about a real campaign," Schrupp stated, highlighting a common pitfall in political contests. He further elaborated on the need to move beyond confrontational approaches, asserting that campaigns should not be based on "blackmail" or the instrumentalization of justice to persecute opponents. Instead, he advocated for a focus on liberating the justice system and fostering genuine democratic practices. Schrupp also underscored the wisdom of the Bolivian electorate. "The citizen is wise, the citizenry is wise," he affirmed. "They choose not like a herd, no matter how much politicians want to reduce us to that. We are not people who don't think or who simply vote with our stomachs or our guts." He argued that voters are discerning and capable of making informed decisions. The analyst concluded by noting the current opportunity for change in Bolivia, citing the end of a political cycle and a multi-dimensional crisis, particularly in the economic and social spheres. He called for a shift towards a "better democratic process" in the country, moving away from what he described as the "tyranny of the majority" to ensure that minorities are not suppressed. This analysis comes as Bolivia approaches an election year in 2025, with discussions on presidential polls and potential second rounds already underway. Schrupp's remarks serve as a call for a more mature and proposal-driven political discourse.

