Bolivian Electoral Tribunal Denounces Attempt to Disqualify Candidates in Upcoming Elections

La Paz, Bolivia – The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) of Bolivia has voiced strong concerns over a judicial action seeking to disqualify candidates currently holding elected positions. The action, admitted by the Third Constitutional Chamber of Santa Cruz, alleges that the TSE failed to apply an ineligibility clause, a move the electoral body asserts undermines fundamental electoral principles. Gustavo Ávila, a vocal representative of the TSE, stated, "The action in question intends to disqualify candidates who are participating in the general elections and who currently hold elected positions, arguing that the TSE omitted the cause of ineligibility." He added that this challenges the electoral principles of preclusion and political pluralism. The TSE reminded constitutional judges of the validity of Plurinational Constitutional Sentence No. 032/2019. This ruling stipulates that individuals holding elected positions are not required to resign three months prior to running for another elected office. This condition, however, still applies to designated and freely appointed public servants. “The TSE evokes the commitment assumed by the Judicial Body and the Plurinational Constitutional Tribunal in the Fourth Multi-Party and Inter-Institutional Meeting for Democracy,” Ávila emphasized. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that political rights and participation are respected, including the protection of the rights of voters, candidates, political parties, and electoral authorities, as well as democracy itself. This pronouncement comes as the TSE was formally notified of the compliance action, which, according to the tribunal, aims to eliminate or suspend the candidacies of officials already registered and currently serving in elected roles, such as senators, deputies, mayors, and councilors.