Bolivia Names Interim Economy Minister After Censure

Bolivia appointed Oscar Mario Justiniano Pinto as interim Economy Minister after the legislature censured Jose Gabriel Espinoza Yáñez, a move that obliges the president to remove him within 24 hours. The censure, approved by 91 votes to 34 with four abstentions, marks a significant setback for President Rodrigo Paz and his push to push through economic reforms and an IMF financing program. Espinoza has said he will challenge the decision in Bolivia’s constitutional tribunal, arguing procedural violations. The change comes amid ongoing efforts to secure IMF approval and navigate fuel- and currency-related economic pressures. Pinto will lead the economy ministry temporarily until a permanent candidate is named, as the government seeks congressional backing for its economic agenda. The episode underscores a tense clash between Bolivia’s legislative and executive branches over fiscal policy and reform momentum.