Bolivia's Electoral Tribunal Clarifies Candidate Eligibility Amid Rising Femicide Cases

La Paz, Bolivia – June 26, 2025 – The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) today addressed concerns regarding a legal action seeking to disqualify candidates currently holding elected positions. Gustavo Ávila, a vocal for the TSE, stated that the tribunal expressed its concern over the admission of a compliance action by the Third Constitutional Chamber of Santa Cruz. Ávila emphasized that this action attempts to disqualify candidates participating in the general elections on August 17, who currently hold elected offices. According to Ávila, the TSE reiterates the validity of Constitutional Plurinational Sentence 032/2019, which stipulates that individuals holding elected positions are not required to resign three months prior to running for another elected office. This ruling allows designated and freely appointed public servants to continue their functions. The TSE underscored its commitment to upholding political rights and participation, including the protection of voters', candidates', political parties', and electoral authorities' rights, as well as democracy itself. In related news, the alarming issue of femicide continues to be a major concern across Bolivia. As of June 21, 2025, a total of 38 femicide cases have been registered nationwide. The city of La Paz regrettably leads this list with 17 recorded cases, highlighting a significant increase compared to previous periods. Santa Cruz follows with 11 cases. Authorities and civil society express deep concern over these figures, indicating a pressing need for intensified efforts to combat gender-based violence.