AMLO and Evo Morales: A Shared Ideology and Political Strategy
The relationship between Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) and former Bolivian President Evo Morales extends beyond simple political solidarity. An examination of their shared governance philosophies and strategies reveals a deeper connection rooted in the principles of the São Paulo Forum, a controversial political alignment that has shaped leftist movements across Latin America.
The Rescue and the “Brotherly” Bond
When AMLO’s government granted Evo Morales asylum in Mexico in November 2019, it was initially framed as a humanitarian gesture towards a politically persecuted leader. As reported by the BBC, AMLO described Morales as a “brother” and a representative of Bolivia’s indigenous population. Still, this act of solidarity was more than just a gesture of support; it was a recognition of a shared political worldview.
The São Paulo Forum and its Six Premises
Evo Morales’ political approach was heavily influenced by the São Paulo Forum, a gathering of leftist political parties and movements in Latin America. As detailed in an opinion piece by Ricardo Pascoe Pierce in El Heraldo de México, the Forum’s core tenets aimed to secure and maintain power through electoral victories followed by the dismantling of institutional checks and balances. These tenets include:
- Elimination of presidential term limits.
- Capture of the judicial system.
- Political persecution of opponents.
- Politicization of the Armed Forces.
- Expansion of state interventionism.
- Infiltration of cultural institutions.
Implementation in Mexico
According to Pascoe Pierce, AMLO has actively implemented these principles during his presidency. While he was unable to eliminate constitutional barriers to re-election through a referendum, he has reportedly focused on corrupting the judicial system and the Armed Forces. The BBC reported that Morales himself actively criticized the interim government in Bolivia from Mexico during his stay, utilizing the platform provided by AMLO’s administration.
The Politicization of the Military
A particularly concerning development is the increasing involvement of the Mexican military in political events, attending Morena party rallies in uniform. This, Pascoe Pierce argues, demonstrates a breakdown of constitutional boundaries and a clear indication of the military’s allegiance to the ruling party, secured through access to public funds and a lack of accountability.
Judicial Control and the Election of Judges
Following Morales’ example, AMLO pursued the popular election of judges, aiming to ensure judicial decisions aligned with the government’s agenda. However, this approach clashes with the expectations of the United States, a major trading partner, which demands a stable rule of law and an independent judiciary in Mexico.
A Declining Influence?
While AMLO has largely followed the São Paulo Forum’s “6 Point Plan,” the Forum’s influence across Latin America has waned in recent years, with many of its former allies losing power or facing legal challenges. Pascoe Pierce suggests that Mexico may be facing a similar fate, increasingly isolated as other nations move away from the Forum’s ideology.
The relationship between AMLO and Evo Morales represents a significant case study in the dynamics of leftist politics in Latin America, highlighting the enduring influence of the São Paulo Forum and its controversial strategies for maintaining power.
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