History of Evo Morales in Timeline
Juan Evo Morales Ayma, Bolivia's 65th president (2006-2019), is a significant figure in Bolivian history as the first president from the indigenous population. His socialist leadership, marked by his involvement with the Movement for Socialism (MAS) party, centered on empowering Bolivia's marginalized indigenous communities. Morales implemented left-leaning policies aimed at improving socioeconomic conditions for indigenous people while actively challenging the influence of the United States and multinational corporations in Bolivia's resource extraction industries.
October 1959: Birth of Evo Morales
Evo Morales was born in October 1959 in Isallawi, Oruro Department, Bolivia, to an Aymara family.
1970: Inspiration from Allende's Campaign
Interestingly, the MAS's electoral campaign in 2005 drew inspiration from Salvador Allende's successful campaign in the 1970 Chilean presidential election. This strategic approach aimed to replicate Allende's effective mobilization of popular support and connect with voters seeking political and social change.
1977: Completion of Higher Education
By 1977, Evo Morales had completed his higher education coursework, demonstrating his perseverance despite facing financial challenges.
1977: Start of Military Service
Evo Morales began his mandatory military service in the Bolivian Army in 1977, a formative experience during a period of political instability.
1978: End of Military Service
Evo Morales completed his military service in 1978, having witnessed firsthand the complexities of Bolivian politics.
1978: Evo Morales Moves to Chapare Province
Evo Morales relocated to the Chapare Province in 1978, a move that would significantly shape his future involvement in coca farming and activism.
1980: Military Coup and Political Change
A far-right military coup led by General Luis García Meza in 1980 significantly impacted Bolivia's political landscape, influencing Evo Morales's views on power and social justice.
1980: Family Relocates to El Chapare
Evo Morales's family relocated to El Chapare in 1980 following agricultural devastation, a move that would deeply connect him to the region and its coca-growing communities.
1981: Population Growth in El Chapare
El Chapare experienced substantial population growth in 1981, reflecting the influx of people seeking opportunities in coca farming.
1981: Foundational Event in Evo Morales's Political Journey
The death of a campesino accused of cocaine trafficking in 1981 profoundly impacted Evo Morales, solidifying his commitment to fighting against injustice and oppression.
1982: Election of Hernán Siles Zuazo and Neoliberal Reforms
The election of Hernán Siles Zuazo and the implementation of neoliberal reforms in 1982 marked a significant shift in Bolivian politics and economic policies.
1983: Death of Evo Morales's Father and Union Work
In 1983, Evo Morales experienced the loss of his father, prompting him to temporarily step back from his union work. Despite this personal loss, his commitment to social justice remained unwavering.
1984: Morales's Early Activism in the Coca Growers' Union
Evo Morales became heavily involved in activism within the coca growers' union, starting his journey in 1984. He witnessed the tragic deaths of fellow campesinos at a roadblock protesting against forced coca eradication.
1985: Leadership Role in the Coca Growers' Union
Morales took on a significant leadership role by becoming the General Secretary of the August Second Headquarters in 1985, further solidifying his dedication to the coca growers' movement.
1986: Proposal for Political Engagement
The idea of entering the political arena emerged within the sindicato social movement as early as 1986, indicating a desire to create broader change.
1988: Continued Population Growth in El Chapare
By 1988, El Chapare's population had surged to 215,000, highlighting its increasing significance as a center for coca cultivation and migration.
1988: Elected as Executive Secretary
Morales's influence within the coca growers' movement continued to rise in 1988 when he was elected as Executive Secretary of the Federation of the Tropics.
1989: Morales' Support for Political Wing
Morales started advocating for establishing a political wing within the movement in 1989, recognizing the need for a more formal political platform to advance their goals.
1989: Advocacy and Violence Against Morales
Morales's advocacy for coca growers led him to speak at the one-year commemoration of the Villa Tunari massacre in 1989. Sadly, he was severely beaten by UMOPAR agents the following day, highlighting the dangers he faced.
1991: Continued Protests and Activism
The fight against forced coca eradication continued through 1991, with Morales and the sindicatos actively engaging in protests, highlighting their ongoing commitment to the cause.
1993: Criticism of Neoliberal Reforms
As Gonzalo Sánchez de Lozada became president in 1993 and implemented neoliberal economic reforms, Morales emerged as a vocal critic, arguing that these policies harmed the majority of Bolivians.
1993: Growing Consensus for Political Participation
By 1993, a consensus had formed within the movement to form a political wing, signifying a significant step towards formal political participation.
March 1994: Opposition to Coca Eradication Agreement
In March 1994, Morales strongly opposed the agreement between the Bolivian government and the U.S. DEA to eradicate coca crops, viewing it as detrimental to the interests of coca growers.
August 1994: Arrest and Hunger Strike
August 1994 marked a turning point as Morales faced arrest and endured beatings and racial slurs. His imprisonment sparked a hunger strike and a massive campesino march, showcasing his growing support and the escalating tensions.
September 1994: Release and Continued Activism
Morales's release in September 1994 further fueled the campesino march, which culminated in covering La Paz with political graffiti, demonstrating the movement's growing boldness and visibility.
1994: Comparisons to Nelson Mandela's Election
Morales' victory drew parallels to Nelson Mandela's historic election as South Africa's president in 1994. Both leaders represented historically marginalized communities and their rise to power symbolized hope for greater inclusion and equality.
March 1995: Formation of the Assembly for the Sovereignty of the Peoples
The Assembly for the Sovereignty of the Peoples (ASP) was officially formed in March 1995, marking the movement's formal entry into Bolivian politics.
April 1995: Arrest and Accusations of Coup Plotting
April 1995 brought about another arrest, this time under accusations of coup plotting. While he was released due to lack of evidence, the incident highlights the government's attempts to silence him.
1995: Evo Morales Enters Electoral Politics
Evo Morales made his foray into electoral politics in 1995, marking a turning point in his career from activism to formal political engagement.
1996: Chairman of the Committee of the Six Federations
Morales's leadership reached new heights in 1996 when he assumed the role of chairman of the Committee of the Six Federations of the Tropics of Cochabamba, a position he held until 2006.
1997: Evo Morales Elected to Congress
Evo Morales secured a seat in Congress in 1997, gaining a platform to advocate for indigenous rights and social justice.
1997: Electoral Success and Criticism of the Government
The IU/ASP alliance, under which Morales ran, gained momentum in the 1997 elections, securing seats in Congress. Morales continued to criticize the government, particularly targeting Hugo Banzer's presidency.
1998: Evo Morales Becomes Leader of Movement for Socialism (MAS)
Evo Morales took the helm of the Movement for Socialism (MAS) party in 1998, solidifying his leadership in the political sphere.
1998: Formation of the IPSP and Continued Activism
Internal divisions led to the formation of the Political Instrument for the Sovereignty of the Peoples (IPSP) under Morales's leadership. He continued his activism, facing ongoing criticism and accusations from the government.
1998: Latin America's "Pink Tide"
Morales' election as president in 1998 marked a broader political shift in Latin America known as the "pink tide." This period saw the rise of several leftist leaders in the region, signaling a move away from neoliberal policies and a greater emphasis on social justice and economic equality.
December 1999: Merger and Electoral Gains for MAS
The IPSP merged with the Movement for Socialism (MAS), using the latter's existing structure. Despite limited resources, MAS, now under Morales's leadership, demonstrated significant electoral gains in the December 1999 municipal elections.
2000: The Water War
In 2000, Bolivia experienced significant unrest due to the doubling of water prices by the Tunari Waters corporation. Leftist groups, including the cocaleros, protested these price hikes, leading to clashes with police and armed forces. This period, known as "the Water War," resulted in fatalities and injuries, forcing the government to revoke Tunari's contract and place the utility under cooperative control. This event highlighted the widespread opposition to economic liberalization in Bolivia and its perceived bias towards a select few.
August 2001: Banzer's Resignation and Accusations Against Morales
Following President Banzer's resignation due to illness in August 2001, Jorge Quiroga assumed the presidency. Under U.S. pressure, Quiroga attempted to expel Morales from Congress, alleging that his inflammatory rhetoric led to the deaths of two police officers in Sacaba. However, Quiroga failed to provide any evidence for these claims.
2001: Noemí Meneses' Birth Year
Information revealed that Meneses was born in 2001, suggesting she was underage when she allegedly met Morales, adding to the gravity of the accusations.
2002: MAS Emerges as a Major Political Force
Capitalizing on widespread discontent with traditional political parties, the MAS, led by Evo Morales, gained significant popularity in 2002. Their success was particularly notable in rural and poor urban areas. In the 2002 presidential election, the MAS secured 20.94% of the vote, becoming the second-largest party in Bolivia, narrowly trailing the ruling MNR. This electoral success solidified the MAS's position as a leading opposition force in Bolivian politics.
2002: Evo Morales Expelled from Congress
In 2002, Evo Morales faced expulsion from Congress due to his role in encouraging anti-government protests, demonstrating his commitment to challenging the status quo.
2002: Bolivia's Economic State Pre-Morales
In 2002, when Morales' presidency began, Bolivia had the unfortunate distinction of being South America's poorest nation. The nation's economy heavily relied on extracting natural resources, particularly natural gas, in which it held the continent's second-largest reserves.
2003: Start of Illicit Coca Cultivation Increase
From 2003 onwards, the area used for illegal coca cultivation in Bolivia saw a year-on-year increase.
2003: Bolivian Gas Conflict
The Bolivian gas conflict erupted in 2003, fueled by protests against the privatization of the nation's natural gas resources and their sale to U.S. companies at below-market prices. Activists, including coca growers, blockaded La Paz, resulting in violent confrontations with law enforcement. The conflict resulted in numerous casualties, further intensifying social and political tensions in Bolivia. While Morales was not directly involved in the conflict, the government accused him and the MAS of leveraging the unrest to destabilize the government.
2004: MAS Becomes Bolivia's Largest Party
In 2004, the MAS solidified its position as a dominant force in Bolivian politics by becoming the country's largest national party, securing 28.6% of councilor positions. However, the party's support base remained predominantly rural, as they struggled to gain widespread acceptance among urban middle classes.
2004: Evolution of MAS's Organizational Structure
MAS underwent organizational changes in 2004, transitioning from its initial structure as the political wing of the social movement to a more traditional party structure.
March 2005: Mesa's Resignation and the Rise of Morales
President Mesa's resignation in March 2005, driven by ongoing protests and political pressure from Morales and the cocalero movement, marked a turning point in Bolivian politics. Fears of civil war led to the installation of a transitional government, setting the stage for a pivotal general election in December 2005.
April 2005: Morales Travels to Cuba, Meets Castro and Chávez
Evo Morales traveled to Havana in April 2005 for knee surgery. During his visit, he met with Cuban President Fidel Castro and Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez.
December 2005: Morales Wins Presidential Election
The December 2005 Bolivian general election proved to be a historic moment. Evo Morales, leading the MAS, secured a resounding victory, capturing 53.7% of the vote. This marked the first time in 40 years that a presidential candidate had won with an absolute majority. Morales' victory, the highest national vote percentage for any presidential candidate in Latin American history, ushered in a new era for Bolivia, signifying a shift towards leftist ideologies and indigenous representation in the country's leadership.
2005: Implementation of Social Programs
Upon assuming presidency in 2005, Morales's administration implemented social programs aimed at tackling illiteracy, poverty, and discrimination, reflecting his commitment to social equality.
January 2006: Morales Crowned Apu Mallku
In January 2006, Evo Morales participated in a significant indigenous ceremony at Tiwanaku, where he was crowned Apu Mallku (Supreme Leader) of the Aymara people. This event held deep cultural and symbolic importance, signifying the recognition and respect Morales garnered from indigenous communities across Latin America. His rise to prominence coincided with a broader trend of leftist leaders gaining ground in the region, often referred to as the "pink tide."
January 2006: Morales' Inaugural Speech
On January 2006, Evo Morales delivered his inaugural speech as the president of Bolivia. In this address, he outlined his vision for the country, emphasizing key themes such as nationalism, anti-imperialism, and a departure from neoliberal policies. His words resonated with many Bolivians, particularly those from marginalized communities who saw in Morales a leader committed to social justice and economic equality.
June 2006: Morales Announces Plans for Nationalization
In June 2006, Evo Morales unveiled his plan to nationalize several key industries in Bolivia, including mining, electricity, telephones, and railroads.
July 2006: Regional Autonomy Referendum
In July 2006, a referendum on regional autonomy resulted in a national vote against it, despite support from eastern departments, leading to protests and clashes.
July 2006: Constitutional Assembly Election and New Constitution
July 2006 saw a historic election for a Constitutional Assembly, leading to the approval of a new constitution in November that transformed Bolivia into a Plurinational State.
December 2006: Morales Attends South-South Conference, Meets Gaddafi
Evo Morales attended the inaugural South-South conference held in Abuja, Nigeria, in December 2006, where he crossed paths with Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.
2006: Nationalization and Social Programs
After taking office in 2006, Morales nationalized Bolivia's oil and gas sector, using the revenue to fund social programs. This move, characteristic of the "pink tide" in Latin America, aimed to reduce poverty and improve living standards.
2006: Evo Morales Elected President of Bolivia
In 2006, Evo Morales assumed the presidency of Bolivia, marking a significant milestone as the country's first indigenous president.
2006: Agrarian Reform and Land Redistribution
Morales' government enacted an agrarian reform law in 2006, redistributing state-owned land to traditional communities to address land inequality.
2006: End of Chairmanship
Morales's time as chairman of the Committee of the Six Federations ended in 2006, likely due to his increasing involvement in national politics.
2006: Labor Reforms and Workers' Rights
On International Workers' Day 2006, Morales issued a decree reversing neoliberal labor policies and improving workers' rights.
2006: Bono Juancito Pinto Program Launched
The Bono Juancito Pinto program, an initiative to incentivize school attendance, was launched in 2006. The program provided US$29 annually to parents who ensured their children maintained an attendance rate exceeding 80% in public schools.
January 2007: Clashes and Revolutionary Government
Clashes between activist groups in Cochabamba in January 2007 led to fatalities, with Morales denouncing the formation of a Revolutionary Departmental Government.
February 2007: Nationalization of Vinto Metallurgy Plant
The Bolivian government, under Evo Morales, nationalized the Vinto metallurgy plant in February 2007 and refused to compensate Glencore, claiming the company obtained the contract illegally.
April 2007: Morales Attends South American Energy Summit
In April 2007, Evo Morales participated in the first South American Energy Summit in Venezuela. During the summit, he engaged in debates with several allies regarding biofuel, a concept he opposed.
May 2007: Bolivia Withdraws from ICSID
In a groundbreaking move, Bolivia, under Evo Morales' leadership, became the first nation globally to withdraw from the International Center for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) in May 2007. Morales argued that the institution displayed a consistent bias towards multinational corporations in its rulings.
2007: Increased Cocaine Seizures and US Aid Reduction
Despite increased cocaine seizures in Bolivia in 2007, the US reduced aid to the country due to disagreements over counter-narcotics strategies.
2007: Bolivia Experiences Economic Growth Under Morales
During 2007, under Evo Morales' leadership, Bolivia achieved remarkable economic growth, even as the world grappled with a global financial crisis. This period marked the first time in 30 years that Bolivia ended a year without a fiscal deficit.
2007: Regulation of Coca Production
In 2007, Morales' government implemented a "Coca Yes, Cocaine No" policy, regulating coca growing for domestic consumption while opposing cocaine production.
2007: Alleged End of Contact with Zapata Montaño
Morales claimed that he had not been in contact with Gabriela Zapata Montaño since 2007.
2007: Establishment of Anti-Corruption Ministry
Morales' government established the Ministry of Institutional Transparency and Fight Against Corruption in 2007 to combat endemic corruption.
May 2008: Unrest and Referendum
In May 2008, eastern Bolivian departments sought greater autonomy, leading to a referendum in which Morales was ratified with 67.4% of the vote despite unrest and opposition from groups financed by wealthy elites.
September 2008: Diplomatic Tensions with the US
In September 2008, Morales expelled the U.S. ambassador, accusing him of supporting civil unrest. The U.S. responded by expelling the Bolivian ambassador and withdrawing USAID, DEA, and Peace Corps presence.
2008: Increase in Coca Production for Commercial Purposes
Between 2008 and 2018, there was a notable increase in the amount of coca produced in Bolivia for commercial use, raising concerns about its potential diversion to the illegal drug market.
2008: Evo Morales Wins Recall Referendum
Evo Morales successfully navigated a recall referendum in 2008, reaffirming his mandate and popular support.
2008: Improvement in US-Bolivia Relations
Following the victory of Barack Obama and the Democratic Party in the 2008 U.S. presidential election, relations between Bolivia and the U.S. saw some improvement.
2008: Promotion of Indigenous Rights and Culture
In 2008, Morales' government implemented policies to promote indigenous rights and culture in Bolivia, including requiring civil servants to learn an indigenous language and increasing indigenous representation in universities.
2008: Renta Dignidad Initiative Expands Social Security
In 2008, the Renta Dignidad initiative expanded the existing Bonosol social security program for senior citizens. This expansion increased the annual payments to $344 and lowered the eligibility age from 65 to 60.
2008: Initial Intention Not to Seek Re-election
Morales initially stated in 2008 that he wouldn't run for re-election in 2014.
2008: Imprisonment of YPFB Head
Santos Ramírez, the head of YPFB, was sentenced to twelve years in prison for corruption in 2008, a rare instance of a MAS member facing such charges.
2008: Expulsion of DEA from Bolivia
Two years into his presidency, in 2008, Evo Morales expelled the DEA from Bolivia amid accusations of his alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade.
January 2009: New Constitution Approved
In January 2009, a new Bolivian Constitution, amended after negotiations with the opposition, was approved by 61.4% of voters in a referendum.
April 2009: Re-Election and Hunger Strike
Morales won a second term as president in April 2009 with a landslide 64.2% of the vote, securing a two-thirds majority for MAS in both legislative houses. His victory followed a five-day hunger strike to push for a new voter registry and timely elections.
November 2009: Restoration of Diplomatic Relations
Bolivia and the United States initiated negotiations to restore diplomatic relations in November 2009, following a period of tension.
December 2009: Climate Change Conference
Morales attended the 2009 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, where he attributed climate change to capitalism and advocated for a financial transactions tax to mitigate it.
2009: Retroactive Corruption Prosecution
A 2009 law allowing retroactive prosecution for corruption led to legal cases against opposition figures, with many fleeing the country.
2009: Re-Election and New Constitution
Evo Morales secured re-election in 2009 and oversaw the implementation of a new constitution that recognized Bolivia as a plurinational state, a testament to his focus on indigenous rights.
2009: Advocating "Communitarian Socialism"
From 2009 onward, Morales promoted "communitarian socialism," blending socialist principles with indigenous community values. His pragmatic approach aimed for social equality and economic independence.
2009: Establishment of Vice Ministry for Decolonization
In 2009, Morales' government established a Vice Ministry for Decolonization to further advance indigenous rights and combat racism.
2009: Bolivia Declared Illiteracy-Free by UNESCO
In 2009, UNESCO declared Bolivia free from illiteracy, a significant achievement made possible by the country's literacy campaign launched with the help of left-wing allies.
2009: Proposed Labor Law Reforms
Morales' government proposed reforms to the 1939 labor laws in 2009, aiming to further enhance labor rights and protections.
2009: New Bolivian Constitution
The 2009 Bolivian constitution, which limited presidential terms to two, was ratified.
2009: Bono Juana Azurduy Program Introduced
The Bono Juana Azurduy program, introduced in 2009, expanded upon a previous public maternity insurance scheme. This program provided cash assistance to low-income mothers who could demonstrate that they and their babies had received necessary pre- and post-natal medical care and had given birth in an authorized medical facility.
April 2010: World's People Conference on Climate Change
Following what he considered a failure at the Copenhagen Climate Conference, Morales presided over the World's People Conference on Climate Change and the Rights of Mother Earth in Cochabamba in April 2010.
April 2010: Departmental Election Gains
Morales' party, MAS, made further gains in the departmental elections held in April 2010.
May 2010: Minimum Wage Protest
In May 2010, Morales' government announced a 5% rise in the minimum wage, which was deemed insufficient by the Bolivian Workers' Central (COB), leading to protests and clashes with police.
August 2010: Protests in Potosí
August 2010 saw violent protests erupt in southern Potosí due to widespread unemployment and a lack of infrastructure investment.
December 2010: Fuel Subsidy Crisis
In December 2010, the government's decision to cut fuel subsidies backfired, leading to protests that forced Morales to reverse the decision.
2010: Recognition of Indigenous Territories and Women's Rights
In 2010, Bolivia saw the introduction of a law allowing for recognized indigenous territories and the establishment of a Unit for Depatriarchalization to promote women's rights.
2010: Law against Racism and Discrimination
Morales' government passed the Law against Racism and Discrimination in 2010, prohibiting racist views in public and private institutions.
2010: Reduction of Pension Age
Morales' government reduced the pension age to 58 in 2010, following an earlier reduction to 60, aiming to improve social security for Bolivian workers.
October 2011: TIPNIS Highway Controversy and Law 180
In October 2011, facing backlash against a proposed highway through the Isiboro Sécure National Park, Morales passed Law 180, halting the construction.
November 2011: Diplomatic Relations Restored but DEA Ban Remains
Bolivia and the U.S. restored diplomatic relations in November 2011, though Morales maintained the ban on the DEA's operation in the country.
2011: End of Yearly Increase in Coca Cultivation
The continuous yearly increase in the area used for illegal coca cultivation observed since 2003 ended in 2011.
June 2012: Police Protests and Reforms
June 2012 witnessed protests by Bolivian police against anti-corruption reforms, leading to the cancellation of many proposed changes.
2012: Withdrawal from UN 1961 Convention
Bolivia, under Morales' leadership, withdrew from the UN 1961 Convention in 2012, challenging the global criminalization of coca.
2012: Shift in Cabinet Composition
By 2012, a notable shift occurred within Morales' cabinet. The initial composition, largely comprising indigenous activists and leftist intellectuals, transitioned towards a more technocratic structure. This change saw a decrease in indigenous representation, with only three out of twenty cabinet members identifying as indigenous.
2012: Cabinet Gender Balance
By 2012, the percentage of women in Morales' cabinet, initially at 50%, decreased to a third.
2012: Accusations of Drug Trafficking Links
In 2012, Evo Morales faced accusations, including from Brazilian media and a Bolivian senator, of involvement in drug trafficking, highlighting the ongoing controversies surrounding his alleged ties to the illegal drug trade.
2012: Positive Social Impact
In 2012, studies revealed that many Bolivians experienced tangible benefits from Morales' policies, including poverty reduction, reduced inequality, and increased political participation.
May 2013: Hydrocarbon Exploration Controversy
In May 2013, the government sparked outrage among environmentalists by announcing plans to allow hydrocarbon exploration in 22 national parks.
July 2013: Forced Landing Incident
In July 2013, Morales' presidential plane was forced to land in Austria after being denied access to the airspace of several European countries due to suspicions that Edward Snowden was on board. This incident sparked international condemnation and apologies from involved nations.
2013: Constitutional Court Ruling on Term Limits
In 2013, a controversial court ruling stated that Morales' first term didn't count towards the term limit, allowing him to run for a third term.
2013: Study on Democratic Backsliding in Bolivia
In 2013, a study highlighted the decline of democratic practices in Bolivia under Evo Morales, citing accusations of politically motivated charges against opposition figures.
2013: Law Against Domestic Violence
In 2013, the Bolivian government, under Morales, passed a law to combat domestic violence against women.
2013: Coca Declassification at UN
Morales' government successfully advocated for the declassification of coca as a narcotic by the UN Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs in 2013.
July 2014: Condemnation of Israel
During the 2014 Israel-Gaza conflict, Morales labeled Israel a "terrorist state" for its actions in Gaza, criticizing its disregard for UN principles and human rights declarations.
2014: EU Study on Coca Use in Bolivia
An EU study conducted in 2014 estimated that only a small portion of coca production in Bolivia was used for traditional purposes like chewing and tea.
2014: Significant Poverty Reduction
By 2014, Morales' policies led to a considerable reduction in poverty and extreme poverty. Social spending increased, and the minimum wage saw substantial growth, demonstrating the positive impact of his economic and social reforms.
2014: Expansion of State Medical Facilities
By 2014, the Bolivian government had successfully opened twenty new hospitals as part of its efforts to expand state medical facilities and enhance healthcare access for its citizens.
2014: Postponed Highway Construction
Construction of the controversial highway through the TIPNIS was scheduled to begin after the 2014 general election, following a government consultation.
2014: Second Re-Election of Evo Morales
Evo Morales's political dominance continued with his second re-election in 2014, extending his tenure and influence.
2014: Professional Soccer Debut
In 2014, Morales became the oldest active professional soccer player by signing with Sport Boys Warnes.
2014: Initial Declaration Against Altering the Constitution
Morales stated that he would not attempt to change the constitution to pursue a fourth term.
2014: Morales Wins Third Term
Morales won his third term as president in 2014, attributing his victory to anti-colonial and anti-imperialist sentiments.
September 2015: Authorization of Referendum on Term Limits
A referendum on a constitutional amendment to allow presidents three consecutive terms was authorized in September 2015.
October 2015: Longest Serving President of Bolivia
In October 2015, Morales became Bolivia's longest-serving president, surpassing Andrés de Santa Cruz's record.
2015: Exploration of Legal Options for a Fourth Term
Despite his earlier statement, Morales began exploring legal avenues to enable a fourth term in 2015.
2015: Meeting Noemí Meneses
Meneses stated she met Morales in 2015 during the carnival season when she was 16 years old, further fueling the controversy surrounding their relationship.
2015: 12-Year Low in Illicit Coca Cultivation
The area dedicated to illicit coca farming in Bolivia reached its lowest point in 12 years in 2015.
February 2016: Allegations Regarding Gabriela Zapata Montaño
In February 2016, Morales faced allegations of fathering a child with Gabriela Zapata Montaño and granting favors to her company. He denied any wrongdoing, and an investigation cleared him of fault.
February 2016: Referendum on Term Limits
The referendum, which would have allowed Morales to run for a fourth term, was held in February 2016 and resulted in a narrow loss.
December 2016: MAS Nominates Morales for 2019 Election
Despite the referendum loss, Morales' party, MAS, nominated him as their candidate for the 2019 presidential election.
September 2017: MAS Petitions to Abolish Term Limits
MAS petitioned the Plurinational Constitutional Court to abolish term limits, arguing they violated human rights.
2017: Increase in Legal Coca Cultivation Limit
Evo Morales signed a law in 2017 that expanded the legally allowed area for coca cultivation in Bolivia, a move that sparked debate.
July 2018: Emergency Surgery
Morales underwent emergency surgery in July 2018 to remove a tumor, raising concerns about his health during his presidency.
August 2018: Inauguration of Casa Grande del Pueblo
The inauguration of the Casa Grande del Pueblo, a new presidential office and residence, took place in August 2018, despite controversy surrounding its construction.
2018: Continued Increase in Coca Cultivation
Between 2018 and 2019, the land dedicated to coca farming in Bolivia expanded, raising concerns from international organizations like the EU.
2018: Public Comments Draw Criticism
In 2018, Bolivian journalist María Galindo criticized Morales for public comments about retiring with a quinceañera, raising concerns about his behavior towards young women.
2018: ACHR Upholds Legality of Term Limits
The court of the ACHR upheld the legality of term limits, but the Bolivian Electoral Tribunal did not retract Morales' candidacy.
January 2019: Attendance at Maduro's Inauguration
Morales attended the swearing-in ceremony of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro for his second term in January 2019.
April 2019: Condemnation of Assange's Arrest
Morales condemned the arrest of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange in April 2019.
October 2019: Bolivian General Election and Subsequent Protests
A general election took place in Bolivia in October 2019, with Evo Morales seeking re-election. After the suspension of the preliminary vote count and the subsequent release of the official count showing Morales winning by a narrow margin, mass protests and counterprotests erupted across the country. The protests were fueled by allegations of electoral fraud, which Morales and his supporters denied.
October 2019: Bolivian General Election and Allegations of Fraud
The October 2019 Bolivian general election was marred by allegations of fraud, with opposition groups and international observers raising concerns about irregularities in the vote counting process. The allegations of fraud sparked mass protests and contributed to a political crisis in the country.
November 2019: Evo Morales Resigns as President of Bolivia
Facing mounting pressure from protests, allegations of electoral fraud, and the loss of support from the police and military, Evo Morales resigned as President of Bolivia in November 2019. Morales characterized his removal as a "coup" and claimed that his life was in danger. He fled to Mexico, where he was granted political asylum.
November 2019: Children Leave Bolivia
In November 2019, Morales' children, Evaliz and Álvaro, left Bolivia for Buenos Aires amidst political turmoil, marking a personal impact of the unfolding events.
2019: UN Report on Undocumented Coca Trade
A 2019 UN report revealed that a significant portion of coca production in Bolivia, particularly in the Chapare region, bypassed legal markets, raising concerns about its flow into the illegal drug trade.
2019: Resignation of Evo Morales
Evo Morales's presidency ended in 2019 amidst controversy and unrest, leading to his resignation.
2019: Bolivian General Election and Subsequent Investigation
Following the disputed 2019 Bolivian general election, which was marked by allegations of fraud, the Bolivian government launched an investigation into the electoral process. The investigation aimed to determine the veracity of the fraud claims and hold those responsible accountable if any wrongdoing was found.
2019: International Reactions to Morales' Candidacy
Luis Almagro, Secretary General of the OAS, initially criticized but later supported Morales' participation in the 2019 election after a court ruling.
2019: Approval of Morales' Candidacy
The Plurinational Constitutional Court's ruling allowed Morales to run in the 2019 election, sparking controversy.
February 2020: Evo Morales Barred from Running for Senate in Bolivia
In February 2020, while living in exile in Argentina, Evo Morales announced his intention to run for a Senate seat in the upcoming Bolivian general election. However, the national electoral tribunal ruled that he was ineligible to run, citing residency requirements.
May 2020: Relationship with Noemí Meneses
The woman in the photographs was identified as Noemí Meneses, who claimed to have been in a relationship with Morales since May 2020. The case involved allegations of coercion, leaked evidence, and conflicting accounts.
June 2020: IPSOS Survey Shows Majority Belief in 2019 Election Fraud
A survey conducted by IPSOS in June 2020 revealed that a significant majority (73%) of Bolivians believed that fraud had occurred during the 2019 general election. The survey highlighted the deep divisions within Bolivian society following the disputed election and the allegations of electoral manipulation.
June 2020: Independent Researchers Challenge OAS Findings on Bolivian Election
In June 2020, a group of independent researchers released a report disputing the Organization of American States' (OAS) claims of election fraud in the 2019 Bolivian election. The researchers, from the Center for Economic and Policy Research, found no statistical evidence of fraud and argued that Morales' first-round victory was likely legitimate. The report, published in the Journal of Politics in 2022, sparked controversy, with the OAS and other critics dismissing it as "fake news."
August 2020: Statutory Rape Investigation Opened
Following the accusations, the Ministry of Government opened a statutory rape investigation in August 2020 to determine the nature of Morales' relationship with the young woman.
August 2020: Rape Accusations Surface
In August 2020, Morales faced rape accusations after photographs of him with a supposed minor circulated online. The accusations linked to past comments by Morales, sparking controversy and investigations.
August 2020: Second Statutory Rape Complaint
In a separate case in August 2020, Morales faced another statutory rape complaint, alleging he fathered a child with a 15-year-old. Morales denied the allegations, calling it a "dirty war" against him.
August 2020: Death of Esther Morales
Tragedy struck Morales' family in August 2020 when his sister, Esther, who served as First Lady, died from COVID-19.
September 2020: Human Rights Watch Report Questions Charges Against Evo Morales
Human Rights Watch issued a report in September 2020 that cast doubt on the terrorism and sedition charges brought against Evo Morales by the interim Bolivian government. The report suggested that the charges were politically motivated and lacked credible evidence.
September 2020: Inter-American Court of Human Rights Advisory Hearing on Indefinite Re-election
In September 2020, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) held a virtual hearing to discuss the legality of indefinite re-election in relation to the American Convention on Human Rights. The IACHR argued that indefinite re-election was contrary to the convention, citing its negative effects on representative democracy and the importance of the alternation of power. Former Bolivian President Tuto Quiroga also spoke at the hearing, arguing that the convention's purpose was to protect citizens' rights, not serve as a tool for authoritarianism.
October 2020: Charges Against Evo Morales Dropped
A court in La Paz, Bolivia dismissed the sedition and terrorism charges against Evo Morales in October 2020. The court ruled that Morales' rights had been violated and that proper judicial procedures were not followed. The decision paved the way for Morales' return to Bolivia.
October 2020: Study Finds Evidence of Fraud in 2019 Bolivian Election
A study published in October 2020 by researchers from the University of Oklahoma and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley found evidence of statistically significant electoral fraud in the 2019 Bolivian election. The study's findings contradicted earlier reports that disputed the OAS's claims of fraud and added another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate surrounding the election.
October 2020: Large-Scale Drug Seizures in Bolivia
In October 2020, the Bolivian anti-narcotics police force, under an interim government, announced substantial seizures of cocaine and marijuana, along with the dismantling of drug production facilities.
November 2020: Evo Morales Returns to Bolivia
Evo Morales returned to Bolivia in November 2020, one day after Luis Arce, his former economy minister, was sworn in as president. Morales' return marked the end of his year-long exile and set the stage for his continued involvement in Bolivian politics.
December 2020: Signs of Declining Influence for Evo Morales Within MAS Party
In late 2020, there were indications that Evo Morales' influence within the Movement for Socialism (MAS) party was waning. Several candidates endorsed by Morales were not selected by MAS officials to run in the 2021 regional elections, suggesting a potential rift between Morales and party leadership.
January 2021: Evo Morales Tests Positive for COVID-19
Evo Morales tested positive for COVID-19 in January 2021 and received treatment at a private clinic in Bolivia. He recovered and was discharged later that month.
February 2021: Presidential Decree for Amnesty and Pardon
In February 2021, the Movement for Socialism approved a decree granting amnesty to those prosecuted during the government of Jeanine Áñez, including Morales. The pardon, met with mixed reactions, sparked debate and highlighted political tensions.
July 2021: Bolivian Government Report Finds No Data Manipulation in 2019 Election
In July 2021, the Bolivian government released a report by the Bisite Deep Tech Lab Research Group of the University of Salamanca, which found no evidence of data manipulation in the official vote count or the preliminary results of the 2019 election. The report acknowledged some irregularities in the electoral process, but concluded that they did not significantly alter the outcome. Despite the report's findings, the Bolivian Attorney General's Office maintained that its investigation into electoral fraud remained open.
2021: Bolivian Regional Elections and the Shifting Political Landscape
The 2021 Bolivian regional elections were seen as a test of the MAS party's strength and Evo Morales' influence following his return from exile. The results of the elections were expected to shape the political landscape in Bolivia and determine the balance of power between Morales and the new government.
2022: Publication of Report Challenging OAS Findings on Bolivian Election
The report by independent researchers challenging the OAS's findings of fraud in the 2019 Bolivian elections was published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Politics in 2022. This publication provided further credibility to the researchers' claims and fueled ongoing debate about the legitimacy of the 2019 election.
2023: Freedom House Ranking of Bolivia
As of 2023, Freedom House classifies Bolivia as a partly-free democracy with a score of 66/100.
October 2024: Argentina Revokes Evo Morales' Refugee Status
The government of Argentina, under newly elected President Javier Milei, revoked Evo Morales' refugee status in October 2024. The move signaled a shift in Argentina's stance towards Morales and reflected the changing political landscape in the region.
October 2024: Ongoing Investigation and Protests
The investigation into the second rape allegation continued into October 2024. Morales' failure to attend a hearing led to his supporters protesting, resulting in arrests and injuries, highlighting the ongoing tensions.
