Bolivia

Abstract

The Republic of Bolivia was created by a proclamation issued on 16 Aug., 1825, with a constitution adopted on 19 Nov., 1826. The present constitution—the twelfth—was adopted in Oct., 1938, and amended by a National Convention in 1944–45. Under that constitution executive power is vested in a President, elected for 4 years by direct popular vote, and not eligible for re-election until 4 years after his term has ended. In the event of his death or failure to assume the office, the Vice-President, elected at the same time, assumes the presidency, and after him, the President of the Senate. There is a Congress of 2 chambers, called the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies, which meets annually on 6 Aug. at La Paz. There are 3 senators for each of 9 departments, elected for 6 years (one-third retiring every 2 years), and 110 representatives are elected for 4 years (one-half retiring every 2 years). The electorate comprises all men and women at the age of 21 if married or 18 years of age if single (including Indians and regardless of literacy). About 160,000 qualified for the elections of 18 May, 1951, but since 1952, when the literacy test was abolished, the potential electorate has risen to more than 2,500,000.