Bolivia Set for Presidential Run-off Between Centrist and Right-Wing Candidate

Bolivia is heading to a presidential run-off between centrist Rodrigo Paz and right-winger Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga, marking the end of two decades of rule by the socialist MAS party. Preliminary results show Paz leading with 32.8% and Quiroga with 26.4%, triggering an October 19 run-off. The election comes amid Bolivia’s worst economic crisis in a generation, with inflation near 25% and shortages of fuel and food. Former President Evo Morales was barred from running, and MAS was weakened by internal divisions. The official results are due within a week, with new government officials set to take office on November 8.