Bolivia election: Centrist Rodrigo Paz elected in shift to the right

Rodrigo Paz's win shows Bolivians want change, but he faces economic challenges after almost 20 years of socialist rule.

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With almost all votes counted, Paz, of the Christian Democratic Party, defeated right-wing candidate Jorge "Tuto" Quiroga in Sunday's run-off election with a share of 54.6%.

A severe economic crisis and infighting within Mas, which has dominated Bolivian politics since 2006, saw many voters wanting change.

Paz, 58, has said he will end fuel shortages and address Bolivia's wider economic problems. In his victory speech, he said he would open up Bolivia to wider international investment and stimulate private-sector growth.

Paz went from being a surprise frontrunner in the first round of the election in August to achieving a clear win over Tuto Quiroga, who received 45.4% of the votes in the run-off.