Trial against Evo Morales for alleged human trafficking to begin in his absence
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- A trial against former Bolivian President Evo Morales for alleged aggravated human trafficking will begin Monday in his absence.
- Morales is accused of having a relationship with a minor and fathering a child while he was president.
- His defense claims the trial is politically motivated and that Morales was not properly notified, while prosecutors maintain he is aware of the charges.
The commencement of the trial against former President Evo Morales on charges of aggravated human trafficking marks a significant legal and political development in Bolivia. The prosecution alleges a relationship with a minor and the subsequent birth of a child during Morales's presidency, a serious accusation that has led to a judicial process.
Morales's defense team has declared their intention not to attend the hearing, citing a lack of proper personal notification and labeling the proceedings as politically motivated. They argue that the trial is being used to divert attention from current economic hardships and street protests, suggesting a deliberate timing to undermine political opposition.
We cannot attend because we do not know what it is about. Brother Evo Morales has not been notified in compliance with the procedure of personal notification.
Despite the defense's stance, judicial authorities in Tarija have confirmed that all legal formalities for opening the trial have been met, including notification through public edicts. Morales himself remains in his political stronghold in Cochabamba, where supporters have maintained a vigil since October 2024 to prevent his arrest. The prosecution insists that a valid arrest warrant remains in effect, setting the stage for a contentious legal battle that could have far-reaching implications for Bolivia's political landscape.
The trial has been initiated against Evo Morales and another female person for alleged human trafficking.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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