Bolivia: Election Day Is Alcohol-Free Holiday
In Bolivia election day is an alcohol-free holiday.
Bolivia had its presidential election on the October 20, 2019, a Sunday, and it was declared alcohol-free among other things.
As President Evo Morales was trying to secure a fourth straight term, in this election, the sale and consumption of alcohol was banned, even at home. Theaters, shops, restaurants and supermarkets were ordered closed. Electoral authorities prohibited carrying of guns, knives or “heavy and dangerous” objects. Motorized vehicles were also banned except for the ones with a special pass.
Bolivians used election day as a holiday to enjoy with their family and friends, go on picnics after voting and youth were seen playing out in the empty roads or cycling.
Having an alcohol-free environment made the election safe and inclusive for all voters.
United Nations supports audit of election results
The United Nations announced it supports an audit of Bolivia’s election result that have been disputed due to allegations of fraud.
Bolivians have blocked streets and lit fires in La Paz, calling for their vote to be respected.
The incumbent president, Evo Morales, was declared winner, securing a fourth consecutive term and extending his rule of Bolivia to nearly two decades. But critics say the vote was rigged.
The United States, Brazil, Argentina and Colombia have called for Bolivia to hold a runoff between Morales and his top challenger, Carlos Mesa, according to Al Jazeera reporting.