In the first official announcements, Bolivian electoral authorities reported the race was close enough to require a runoff between Mr. Morales and Mr. Mesa. Mr. Morales came to power in 2006 as part of the wave of leftist victories that also made Hugo Chávez — with whom Mr. Morales forged a close alliance — Venezuela’s leader. Like Chávez, Mr. Morales has a strong demagogic streak and a will to power. ADADEconomic and social progress under Mr. Morales had slowed in recent years, as prices for its export commodities fell and budget deficits ballooned. Small wonder many Bolivians wanted to give Mr. Mesa at least a chance to face Mr. Morales one- on- one in a second round.

Source: Washington Post October 24, 2019 22:41 UTC