Embarrassment' after Bolivian lawmakers brawl in parliament

Rival Bolivian lawmakers came to blows on the floor of parliament on May 23, 2023 - Copyright AFP/File RAMZI HAIDAR


Bolivian leaders issued condemnations Wednesday after rival lawmakers came to blows on the floor of parliament during a debate over the fate of a jailed governor described as a political prisoner by the opposition.

Chamber of Deputies leader Jerges Mercado, for his part, said the brawl, which happened Tuesday, was “regrettable” and “an embarrassment.”

The lawmakers, all women, threw punches and kicks after pro-government MPs sought to snatch placards held up by opposition members with messages such as: “With political prisoners, there is no democracy.” But some of the lawmakers sought to defend their actions, blaming one another for starting the fight. At least one announced she would pursue legal action.

The incident highlighted worsening polarization in the Andean country, where the opposition claims there are some 180 political prisoners behind bars.

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A different Parliament fight in Bolivia