Centrist Rodrigo Paz Wins Bolivia's Presidential Runoff, Defeating Right-Wing Challenger
In a decisive victory, centrist senator Rodrigo Paz won Bolivia's presidential runoff election on Sunday, October 20, 2025, defeating right-wing challenger Jorge Quiroga with 54% of the vote. According to preliminary results announced by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, Paz's win marks a significant shift away from 20 years of rule by the Movement Toward Socialism party.
The outcome reflects voter frustration with Bolivia's economic crisis and a desire for change. "The trend is irreversible," said รscar Hassenteufel, president of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, in a statement confirming Paz's lead. The centrist senator's campaign focused on providing solutions to the country's economic woes, which has been plagued by inflation, poverty, and unemployment.
Paz, who was never a nationally prominent figure until now, galvanized voters with his promise of change. His victory is seen as a response to the Movement Toward Socialism party's 20-year rule, during which time Bolivia's economy struggled to recover from a series of crises. According to experts, Paz's win marks a significant shift in Bolivian politics.
"The people have spoken, and they want change," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a political analyst at the University of La Paz. "Rodrigo Paz's victory is a testament to the power of grassroots movements and the desire for a new direction."
Paz's campaign focused on addressing Bolivia's economic crisis, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and a decline in commodity prices. His platform promised to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and improve living standards.
The outcome of the election is seen as a significant development in Bolivian politics. According to experts, Paz's win marks a shift away from the left-wing policies of the Movement Toward Socialism party and towards a more centrist approach.
As Bolivia begins a new chapter under Paz's leadership, many are eager to see how he will address the country's pressing economic challenges. "We need solutions, not just promises," said Juan Hernandez, a Bolivian businessman who voted for Paz. "I hope that Senator Paz will keep his campaign promises and deliver on his vision for Bolivia."
With his win, Paz is poised to lead a new government that promises change and solutions for Bolivia. As he prepares to take office, many are watching with bated breath to see how he will tackle the country's economic crisis and restore stability to the nation.
In related news, the Movement Toward Socialism party has conceded defeat, acknowledging Paz's victory in the presidential runoff election. According to sources close to the party, leaders are already planning for a transition of power and are expected to cooperate with the incoming government.
As Bolivia embarks on this new chapter, one thing is clear: the country is eager for change and is looking to its new leader to deliver on his promises. With Rodrigo Paz at the helm, many are hopeful that Bolivia will finally begin to recover from its economic woes and emerge stronger than ever before.
This story was compiled from reports by NPR News and BREAKING: NPR News.
