Thursday, July 30th 2026 - 06:37 UTC
Morales rejected the accusations, describing them as political persecution and an attempt to divert attention from the country's economic crisis
The Santa Cruz departmental prosecutor's office issued an arrest order on Wednesday against former president Evo Morales (2006-2019) over his alleged role in the road blockades and protests that paralyzed parts of Bolivia for 53 days in May and June.
The document, signed by prosecutor Brayan Melgar Ledezma of the specialized corruption prosecution unit, names Morales and other unidentified individuals in connection with six alleged offenses: armed uprising against the security and sovereignty of the state, terrorism, endangering the safety of transportation, criminal association, public incitement to commit crimes, and endangering the safety of public services. The investigation stems from a complaint filed by the Pro Santa Cruz Civic Committee, later joined by the Interior Ministry.
Morales rejected the accusations, describing them as political persecution and an attempt to divert attention from the country's economic crisis. He wrote on the social network X that his position has always been clear, that he stands with those suffering from austerity, fuel shortages, the rising cost of living, insecurity and the spread of drug trafficking, and that he will not be intimidated. He posted from the Chapare, the tropical region of Cochabamba where he remains under the protection of coca growers' organizations.
