Bolivian parliament censures economy minister, opening door for dismissal

Bolivia's Legislative Assembly has censured Economy and Public Finance Minister José Gabriel Espinoza, a move that could lead to his dismissal by President Rodrigo Paz. The censure occurred after Espinoza failed to appear for a scheduled interpellation regarding the government's economic policies. He had requested a postponement, citing official travel commitments to Santa Cruz and Brazil.

Lawmakers rejected Espinoza's request, with 91 of the 129 present voting in favor of the censure. Opposition deputy Elena Pachacute of the Libre alliance asserted that the action was not political revenge but a demand for answers and accountability amid an economic crisis impacting all Bolivians. "This minister has lost the confidence of the Legislative Branch and must face the consequences," Pachacute stated, emphasizing the need for ministers capable of addressing the nation's current challenges.

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the censure to the Economy Minister is not political revenge, but it is the result of an interpellation in which answers and responsibilities were demanded in the face of an economic crisis that is hitting all Bolivians.

The censure, according to Bolivia's Political Constitution, implies the minister's removal. Law 1350 further stipulates that the president must dismiss the censured minister within 24 hours of formal notification. However, past instances show presidents have dismissed ministers only to reappoint them shortly after, a practice critics argue undermines the constitutional mechanism's binding nature.

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The political message is forceful, this minister has lost the confidence of the Legislative Branch and must assume the consequences, Bolivia needs ministers who are up to the historic moment we are living, ministers who work, who provide answers, who know the reality of the Bolivian people.