Explosive Device Detonates Near Polling Station in Bolivia During Elections
On August 17, 2025, an explosive device detonated near a polling station in Kutimarca, Arque municipality, Cochabamba, as confirmed by Bolivian Interior Minister Roberto Rios. Witnesses reported a loud blast occurring in the backyard of the Jose Carrasco Elementary School shortly before leftist candidate Andronico Rodriguez was scheduled to cast his vote, reports 24brussels.
Following the explosion, officers from the Special Force to Fight Crime (FELCC) arrived to investigate, gathering statements from witnesses present at the scene. Prosecutor Juan Campero, who is overseeing the inquiry, stated, “There are no material damages or injuries. Voting is taking place normally.”
The detonation happened as electoral materials were being transported to the polling station. Rodriguez, who has been polling as the leading leftist candidate, currently holds a position between third and fourth place behind two right-wing contenders, Samuel Doria Medina of the Unity Alliance and Jorge Quiroga of the Free Alliance. Should neither secure a majority in today’s election, a runoff may be anticipated.
General elections began at 8 a.m. local time, with over 7.5 million voters expected to participate in electing a new president, vice president, 36 senators, and 130 members of the Legislative Assembly. The 2025 elections are framed by a critical economic situation characterized by a shortage of U.S. dollars, fuel scarcity, and soaring inflation, the worst witnessed in decades.
As the situation develops, authorities are focused on ensuring a secure voting environment and addressing the ongoing economic turmoil that underscores these elections.
