Bolivia’s ex-leader Evo Morales reappears after months-long unexplained absence

The Guardian World

by Associated Press

February 20, 2026

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Evo Morales, Bolivia’s long-serving socialist former leader, made a surprise reappearance on Thursday after nearly seven weeks of unexplained absence. His sudden disappearance had sparked rumors that he might have fled the country following the U.S.-led ousting of his ally, Venezuela’s former president Nicolás Maduro. However, Morales resurfaced in his political stronghold, the Chapare region, where he has been evading an arrest warrant tied to human trafficking charges. His public appearance aimed to quell speculation about his whereabouts and reaffirm his political role by endorsing candidates for upcoming regional elections. Morales’ prolonged absence raised concerns about the stability of Bolivia’s political landscape and highlighted the lack of information surrounding his movements in the remote Chapare region. The Andean nation has grappled with uncertainty since Morales stepped down as president in 2019 amid protests and allegations of fraud, leading to a series of political changes. His reappearance comes at a critical time, as Bolivia prepares for regional elections and faces ongoing tensions with neighboring countries, particularly over U.S. involvement in the region. The situation underscores the fragile state of democracy in Bolivia and its vulnerability to external influences. Morales’ continued evasion of justice while maintaining political influence has drawn criticism from opponents and international observers. His actions have also fueled fears about the potential for further instability, especially as relations between Latin America and the U.S. remain tense under President Donald Trump’s administration. This story matters globally because it highlights the complex interplay of politics, justice, and foreign policy in Latin America. Morales’ reappearance and the circumstances surrounding his absence shed light on the challenges faced by Bolivia’s government in maintaining order and addressing corruption. It also reflects broader concerns about U.S. involvement in the region and its impact on local leaders and governments. Ultimately, Morales’ actions raise questions about justice, political influence, and regional stability. His continued evasion

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/20/2026