Bolivia's Evo Morales Urged to Run for 4th Term

During a rally in Bolivia's Capital, La Paz, thousands gathered to call for Morales’ re-election.

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“Thanks to the struggles of indigenous peoples and social movements, we recovered our homeland and refounded Bolivia with dignity and sovereignty without exclusions or racism,” Morales said during the rally.

"Revolution is inclusion without discrimination,” Morales continued when discussing his tenure as president. “When there is inequality and injustice the people rise up and organize themselves.”

Since taking power, Morales led a campaign to nationalize Bolivia’s natural resources and has supported socially progressive policies.

"President Evo, the people are with you," said Jesus Vera, a community leader who participated in the rally. "For as as long as the people continue to support your government, you will continue to be the president of all Bolivians," he added.

Morales has been in power since 2006 and is no longer allowed to run for re-election. A constitutional amendment that would allow Morales to run again was put to a vote in a referendum last year and was rejected.

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Supporters believe that Morales needs more time in office to complete the construction of his proposed social programs.

Opposition factions, however, believe that the results of the referendum must be respected.

Supporters believe that Morales needs more time in office to complete the construction of his proposed social programs.

Opposition factions, however, believe that the results of the referendum must be respected.

Morales claims that the narrow loss during the referendum was caused by a defamatory campaign against him, which claimed that he was doing favors for Chinese investors.

While Morales said that he would respect the results, the president has appealed to the Constitutional Court, which will examine the case in December to decide if he is eligible to stand for office again.