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The Importance of Evo Morales' Bolivia
January 15, 2006
When Evo Morales won the first round of Bolivia's history 2006 election with 54%, more than any Bolivian president in 20 years, he became the first indigenous president since Spanish colonization in the 1500s in a country that is nearly 70% indigenous.
In the articles in the western press that I have read, some view him as a "leftist" leader in the vein of Fidel Castro and Hugo Chavez. While he is no right winger, I predict we will find that he will follow more in the vein of Brazilian President Lula, who is playing a more pragmatic role in helping develop his and other developing economies while pushing for program that help the majority poor (with limited success).
With the relative political inexperience of Evo Morales, it will be very important that he create a smart and experienced team from diverse elements of Bolivian society. My view is that if he can build alliances with business leaders and his own masses, he has an opportunity to bring attention and resources to one of the poorest countries in the world and transform the conversation about "America's failed War on Drugs."
I wish him and his country, in which I spent 4 months in 1998, all the best. My experience in Bolivia transformed my view of the world and of my own country, and gave me insight into my own privilege and opportunity to make a difference in the world. Feel free to listen to a audio recording called "Sorojchi, Bolivia" that I release on my first CD in 1999.
Posted by Colin at January 15, 2006 10:12 AM
Comments
Hello Colin,
I spent 3 months in Bolivia last year. I'm happy to find information like the one I found on your website concerning Evo Morales.
I really hope a major change in Bolivian politic. Something that is not so difficult, just a leader who trust his citizens, not only the rich ones but all of them!
I'm from Belgium, heart of Europe. In our countries, Bolivia lacks seriously of visibility. I remembered our national TV only spoke one time about these elections - however I saw it like a historical moment.
Thank you for your article.
Besides, I play in a music band. We are working on a song. It will be called "Evo Morales".
Bye,
Vincent
Posted by: Vincent Oury at February 23, 2006 12:38 PM
