Bolivia Electoral Officials Face Threats, One Seeks International Protection
LA PAZ, BOLIVIA—Electoral officials in Bolivia are facing escalating threats, raising concerns about the integrity of the upcoming presidential elections. Unitel Bolivia reported that Francisco Vargas, a member of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE), has publicly denounced receiving threats and plans to petition the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (CIDH) for precautionary measures.
"The threats from mobilized sectors put the electoral calendar at risk," Vargas stated in an interview shown in the Unitel report. He also expressed concerns about the release of his personal information and that of his colleagues and family. Another TSE official, speaking anonymously, corroborated Vargas's account, stating, "We've seen a pattern of threats, not just against us but also our families, who are completely uninvolved in our work."
The TSE has not yet issued an official statement regarding these threats. However, the situation underscores the challenges facing Bolivia's electoral system and the importance of ensuring the safety and security of election officials. The international attention brought to this issue through Vargas's planned appeal to the CIDH could be a critical step in protecting the electoral process.
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