Bolivia’s judicial landscape witnessed a significant development as the Supreme Court of Justice nullified the 10-year sentence against former interim President Jeanine Áñez, leading to her immediate release. The court’s decision further paves the way for a political trial, aligning with the demands of Áñez’s legal team.
Romer Saucedo, the President of the Supreme Court, announced on Wednesday that the decision was influenced by “several arguments” and supported by seven of the nine justices. Saucedo cited “violations” of due process during Áñez’s previous trial as a key reason for the annulment.
Áñez’s conviction was tied to her controversial rise to power during a National Assembly session in the aftermath of 2019’s deadly protests. These protests, which saw 37 fatalities, were a reaction to the disputed presidential elections that saw Evo Morales securing another term amidst claims of electoral fraud by the Organization of American States.
The annulment of the sentence mandates Áñez’s release, which her defense team is now preparing to execute. This move is expected to lead to a political trial, a shift from the legal proceedings previously conducted through ordinary channels.
For more updates on this and related stories, follow AP’s coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america.
