Bolivia is preparing for its most fragmented sub‑national elections in recent history. The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) confirmed 34,618 candidacies, eclipsing the 2021 record of just over 20,000. These candidates will vie for governors, mayors, councilors and assembly members across nine departments and 340 municipalities for the 2026‑2031 term.
The surge in candidacies—driven by 184 political organizations—signals a deep crisis of identity in Bolivia’s party system. Analysts point to the collapse of the traditional “Axis Organizer”, the Movement for Socialism (MAS) once led by Evo Morales, which has left the electoral arena without a dominant force to shape national politics.
As a result, the vote is expected to disperse more than in previous national elections, turning the electoral map into a mosaic of independent actors. This fragmentation could make governance in regions and municipalities difficult, with no clear majorities in local legislative bodies.
The elections are scheduled for March 22 2026, and the TSE will publish the final list of approved candidates on January 5. Political observers warn that the lack of a clear political bloc may threaten local stability and effective governance.
"There are many candidates without a party and many parties without candidates," said Oscar Ortiz, former minister and political analyst. This underscores the unprecedented absence of a unifying force in Bolivian politics.
