Guaranteeing Voter Rights

With less than two weeks left before the upcoming Referendum on the use of hydrocarbon resources, it has become increasingly clear where each political party, social, and civic groups stands on the five questions. Some have publicly stated that they will vote “yes”, “no”, or even abstain from this exercise. However, there are some radical groups that are threatening to disrupt the Referendum altogether.

Felipe Quispe and the Confederación Sindical Única de Trabajadores Campesinos de Bolivia (CSUTCB) have announced that they will blockade roads prohibiting anyone to vote, the intimidation of those working the tables, and the burning of ballot boxes. The Central Obrero Regional and Central Obrero Boliviano have also announced similar measures. The government will treat as criminals anyone who tries to disrupt, intimidate or prevent anyone from voting.

President Carlos Mesa reiterated that it is his responsibility to ensure the safety and ensure the fundamental right of anyone who wants to cast their ballot. The use of the military to maintain order and prevent violence is a definite possibility according to Mesa in his weekly address.

Those who often lump Quispe, the COB and Evo Morales all in the same group of malcontents, may be surprised to find that Morales is backing the President and the Referendum.

International observers, possibly from the Carter Center, may be on hand to monitor the transparency of this Referendum process.

The 18th of June is a historic day for Bolivia because hundreds of thousands of Bolivians, who aren’t part of unions, political parties, or civic groups who have had a monopoly on disrupting or affecting national policies will now have a chance to participate directly in their country's future. It is the responsibility of Mesa to protect this right and this opportunity.