World
Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales says his car was shot at amid rising political tensions
Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales says his car was shot at amid rising political tensions in the South American country.
The politician posted a Facebook video appearing to show him sitting in the passenger seat with at least two bullet holes in the windscreen.
In the video, which has not yet been independently verified, the driver appeared injured but was able to continue driving.
In a radio interview after the incident, Mr Morales said two vehicles intercepted him on the road and fired upon his car, claiming a bullet passed “centimetres” from his head.
It comes at a time of high tensions, with supporters of Mr Morales blocking highways in the centre of the country as police and security forces try to clear them.
Bolivia’s government recently criticised Mr Morales for “destabilising” the country through the two weeks of roadblocks, which have jammed up food and fuel supplies around the country.
A sign reads in Spanish ‘There is no gasoline’ at a fuel station after five days of roadblocks. Pic: AP
The country is also grappling with dwindling gas production and rising inflation. A coup in the country was narrowly headed off after troops stormed the presidential palace.
Mr Morales is facing a power struggle with President Luis Arce ahead of the 2025 elections. He has declared his intention to replace Acre – his one-time ally, economic minister, and political mentee.
Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News
Mr Morales is also battling against allegations he had relationships with minors.
He had been summoned by regional prosecutors but did not appear to testify and now faces an arrest warrant. Mr Morales strongly denies the accusations.
Read more from Sky News:
‘Lorryloads of very posh cheese’ stolen by ‘wrong’uns’
Beyonce makes political appearance
Man charged with triple stabbing
Riot police clash with supporters of Morales. Pic: AP
Bolivia has a long history of political unrest since it gained independence in 1825.
Mr Morales maintains he was removed from office in a 2019 coup after he ran for a fourth term.