Evo Morales Continues Hunger Strike for Dialogue

Evo Morales, Bolivia's former president, is on a hunger strike demanding political dialogue with President Luis Arce, his former protégé and now rival. This action comes amid escalating protests by Morales' supporters, who have erected roadblocks nationwide in response to what they perceive as political persecution following attempts by Arce's government to revive a 2016 statutory rape case against Morales. Morales, speaking from his stronghold in Chapare, insists on a dialogue focused on economic and political issues without preconditions. He claims that his charges are politically motivated, stating, 'My crime is being Indigenous.' The protests have significantly disrupted transportation in Bolivia, costing the country over $1.7 billion. Morales hopes that international organizations will help facilitate discussions with Arce's government.