Former Bolivian President Evo Morales claims he was the target of an assassination attempt on Sunday, alleging that his vehicle was intercepted and fired upon by two vehicles. He reported that a bullet narrowly missed his head and posted a video showing two bullet holes in his windshield. The driver appeared injured but managed to continue driving. Morales, a prominent Indigenous leader and founder of the socialist Movement Toward Socialism (MAS) party, has been embroiled in an escalating power struggle with current President Luis Arce, his former economy minister, ahead of Bolivia’s 2025 presidential elections.

The attack on Morales comes amid growing internal conflicts within MAS and a backdrop of national unrest, as Morales’ supporters have staged road blockades that have strained the country’s supply of essential goods. These protests have led to clashes with police, who report that 14 officers have been injured and 44 protesters arrested. The government has criticized Morales, accusing him of attempting to “destabilize” Bolivia and “interrupt democratic order.”

Bolivia is facing significant economic challenges, including declining gas production, low foreign currency reserves, and rising inflation. These pressures are contributing to political tensions within the MAS party, as Morales and Arce vie for influence. Morales also faces serious legal issues, with allegations of relationships with minors resulting in an arrest warrant after he failed to appear for questioning. He denies the accusations, calling them a government-led attempt at judicial persecution.

This complex situation underscores the challenges Bolivia faces as it approaches the 2025 elections, with a fractured ruling party, economic instability, and a contentious political environment that risks sparking further violence and social unrest.