Bolivia’s ex-leader Morales reappears in stronghold after 7-week absence

Former Bolivian President Evo Morales reappeared in the Chapare region, his political stronghold, after a seven-week absence, ending speculation he had fled the country. His public appearance in Chimore on Thursday included endorsing candidates for upcoming regional elections and accusing the U.S. of targeting left-wing parties in Latin America. Morales explained his absence was due to complications from chikungunya, dismissing rumors of fleeing despite an outstanding arrest warrant for human trafficking. He pledged to remain in Bolivia despite the political climate under conservative President Rodrigo Paz, whose election ended Morales's party's long rule. The reappearance follows the arrest of former President Luis Arce in December as part of a corruption investigation.

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.