Assembly backs Public Works Minister with majority vote of confidence

Bolivia's Minister of Public Works, Mauricio Zamora, successfully navigated an interpellation session in the Assembly, securing a majority vote of confidence that prevented his censure. The session saw legislators grilling Zamora on his management of the state airline, Boliviana de Aviación (BoA), addressing issues such as flight incidents, delays, and the company's financial status.

Zamora presented initial explanations and responded to 30 specific questions posed by the interpellating deputies. Following his presentation, a debate ensued among the assembly members, during which their stances on the minister's performance were made clear. Ultimately, the vote indicated significant support for Zamora's explanations and his handling of the ministry's responsibilities.

Out of the 139 legislators present, a substantial majority of 99 voted for a "pure and simple" order of the day, which equates to endorsing the minister's explanations. An additional 34 legislators abstained from voting. In contrast, only six parliamentarians formally requested Zamora's censure, highlighting a clear division in the Assembly's opinion but a decisive outcome in favor of the minister.

This outcome contrasts sharply with the recent censure of the Minister of Economy, José Gabriel Espinoza, who faced a similar interpellation but was ultimately censured by 91 assembly members. The vote for Zamora, primarily supported by legislators from the ruling party and the Libre party, along with some from Unidad, ensured he was not censured, allowing him to continue in his post.