Rodrigo Paz ends up dancing caporales: 'Gran Poder is the living force of our roots'

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz surprised attendees at the traditional Entrada del Señor Jesús del Gran Poder in La Paz on Saturday by joining dancers, despite his initial intention to observe the festivities. Sharing the official palco with government ministers and the governor of La Paz, Paz witnessed over 130,000 dancers and musicians participating in the event.

Paz, who has a background as a folkloric dancer, later shared on social media his deep connection to the tradition. "For 32 years, I've carried folklore in my blood: 15 years dancing Caporales; the rest, dedicated to the majestic rhythm of the Morenada," he wrote. He described Gran Poder not merely as a festival, but as "the repayment, the effort of thousands of families, and the living force of our roots." He asserted that "culture is the true heart and the energy that drives the renewal of our homeland."

Addressing the thousands of participants parading through the streets, Paz acknowledged the immense effort involved in the entrada. "May you continue with the same faith; I know you make a huge effort. I have danced with many of them, through all the Morenadas, heavy transport has passed, and I recognized several friends," he expressed. His participation and words underscored the importance of cultural expression and community effort.

The President emphasized Gran Poder's significance as a manifestation of faith, identity, and national unity. He reaffirmed culture's role in strengthening Bolivia. "Much strength to the participants and musicians who today make La Paz tremble with our pride," he concluded. The Entrada del Señor Jesús del Gran Poder is one of Bolivia's most important folkloric and religious celebrations, drawing tens of thousands of participants.