Bolivia’s ex-leader Evo Morales reappears after months-long unexplained absence

The Guardian - World NewsEN 2 min read 100% complete by Associated PressFebruary 20, 2026 at 05:10 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

After a nearly seven-week absence, former Bolivian President Evo Morales reappeared in his stronghold of Chapare, Bolivia, on Thursday. He attributed his absence to a severe case of chikungunya and dismissed rumors of fleeing the country. Morales vowed to remain in Bolivia to support his political party, Movement Toward Socialism, despite an outstanding arrest warrant. His reappearance comes amid heightened tensions due to President Rodrigo Paz's efforts to strengthen ties with the U.S., including a planned meeting with President Trump and the potential return of the DEA, reversing Morales' previous policies. Morales' return also coincides with upcoming regional elections where he is endorsing candidates.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Russia 30% Cuba 30% Iran 30% Movement Toward Socialism 40% China 40% Chapare 50% Rodrigo Paz ×260% Nicolás Maduro 60% Donald Trump ×260% United States ×370% Bolivia ×580% Evo Morales ×990%

Keywords

evo morales 100% bolivia 90% political absence 70% us influence 60% regional elections 60% chikungunya 50% coca-growing region 50% rodrigo paz 50% foreign policy 40% us relations 40%