A Bolivian court has issued an arrest warrant for former President Evo Morales following his failure to attend a hearing concerning allegations of sexual abuse involving a minor. The case, which has ignited political tensions in Bolivia, accuses Morales, 65, of having a sexual relationship with a teenage girl in 2016, a charge that constitutes statutory rape under Bolivian law.
Legal Actions and Morales’ Response
Judge Nelson Rocabado, presiding over the case in Tarija, where the alleged victim resides, announced the decision on Friday. “There has been a warrant ordered for his search and arrest,” the judge declared. The order intensifies the legal pressure on Morales, who has refused to appear in court, citing political persecution.
Morales has denied all allegations, claiming that the charges are a form of “lawfare” orchestrated by his former ally, now political rival, President Luis Arce. In December, Bolivia’s prosecutor’s office had already issued a detention order for Morales, but the judge’s latest ruling strengthens calls for his immediate arrest.
Morales’ Current Whereabouts and Security Measures
Despite the court’s directives, Morales remains in his stronghold of Chapare, a region known for its coca production and his political base. Reports suggest he is staying within the headquarters of the coca growers’ unions, safeguarded by multiple layers of security to evade arrest.
Outside the courthouse in Tarija, a group of women protested, holding banners that read, “Evo Morales abuser, girls are not to be touched.” The case has fueled public outrage, with many calling for accountability. Meanwhile, the prosecutor handling the case, Sandra Gutiérrez, stated that authorities would investigate whether Morales’ failure to appear in court constitutes a criminal offense in itself.
Political Battle Intensifies
The legal proceedings unfold against the backdrop of a fierce struggle for control of Bolivia’s ruling party between Morales and President Arce. With the presidential elections set for August, the case adds another layer of uncertainty to the political landscape. While neither Morales nor Arce has issued immediate statements following the latest court ruling, their rivalry has become increasingly apparent.
Morales’ legal team attempted to justify his absence by citing health issues, including bronchopneumonia and heart conditions. However, Judge Rocabado dismissed these claims, stating that the ailments are treatable and do not exempt him from court appearances.
Divided Reactions Across Bolivia
Despite the legal turmoil, Morales retains significant support, particularly among Bolivia’s Indigenous and rural populations. Political figures like Isidro Vaca have openly defended the former leader, vowing to prevent his arrest. “We have to take care of him. We are not going to allow (him to be arrested). We will stand by his side 24 hours a day,” Vaca asserted.
However, opposition leaders and government officials have been vocal in their criticism of Morales’ refusal to comply with the legal process. Roberto Ríos, Bolivia’s deputy minister of public safety, challenged Morales to take a paternity test if he is indeed innocent, suggesting that such a step could help resolve the controversy.
Implications for Bolivia’s Political Landscape
The arrest warrant against Morales is likely to deepen existing political divisions in Bolivia. While his supporters see the charges as politically motivated, his critics argue that no individual should be above the law, regardless of political stature. With the upcoming elections looming, the case is expected to remain a major flashpoint in Bolivia’s political discourse.
As the legal battle unfolds, the next steps remain uncertain. Will Morales surrender to authorities, or will his supporters continue shielding him from arrest? The coming weeks could prove decisive for Bolivia’s legal and political future.
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