The difficult construction of counter-power and power in Bolivia

Abstract

The Movement for Socialism (MAS)—Indigenous, peasant and anti-imperialist, openly opposed to neoliberalism, with a clear discourse in favor of national sovereignty and dignity and constant criticism of Washington and the political class—won 20.94% of the vote, coming first in La Paz, Cochabamba, Oruro and Potosí and gaining a parliamentary bloc of 35 legislators. Morales, the MAS leader, was the second most voted candidate. The legislature now looks more like the real Bolivia, with its ethnic and class inequalities. It remains to be seen how the MAS will pursue its bases’ demands through parliamentary activity without abandoning direct action, road blockades, marches and strikes.