Political Power Struggle in Bolivia Escalates After Arrest Warrant Issued for Former President on Rape Charges

mexico city - Supporters of former Bolivian president Evo Morales threaten to 'set the country on fire' if he is arrested for rape, sparking a political crisis in the nation.

A warrant for the arrest of Evo Morales has been issued by the Public Prosecutor of Bolivia on charges of raping and impregnating a fifteen-year-old girl in 2016. Morales, who is currently in hiding in his hometown, faces unrest from his supporters with roadblocks set up in protest.

Accused of a 2016 incident, Morales allegedly fathered a child with the minor, claiming to have had permission from her parents in exchange for political favors.

Amidst the legal turmoil, Morales accuses the current government of a political vendetta against him, while his opponent, President Luis Arce, warns of Morales' intentions for leadership.

The power struggle between Morales and Arce, both from the leftist party Movement for Socialism (MAS), has escalated, leading to a failed coup attempt earlier this year.