Centrist senator Rodrigo Paz won Bolivia’s presidential runoff with 54.5% over conservative Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga, ending nearly two decades of leftist rule amid the country’s worst economic crisis in a generation. The 58-year-old Christian Democrat takes office November 8 but lacks a congressional majority, forcing alliances. Paz campaigned on maintaining social programs while shifting to private-sector growth, gradual reforms, and closer U.S. ties, including a proposed $1.5 billion fuel cooperation deal. He plans to phase out universal fuel subsidies with targeted aid. Analysts warn immediate tests: scarce fuel, soaring inflation, and a fragmented legislature.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.