Alfredo Ovando Candía, Bolivian general and politician, 56th President of Bolivia (d. 1982)

Alfredo Ovando Candía (6 April 1918 – 24 January 1982) was a pivotal military and political figure in 20th-century Bolivia, whose career profoundly influenced the nation's often turbulent path. Rising through the ranks of the Bolivian Armed Forces, he ultimately commanded the prestigious Bolivian Air Forces, a testament to his strategic acumen and leadership. Beyond his military prowess, Ovando Candía also served as an ambassador, showcasing a diplomatic facet to his multifaceted career.

A Trajectory to the Presidency

Ovando Candía's journey to the highest office was unique, seeing him serve as the 48th President of Bolivia on two non-consecutive occasions, each under distinct circumstances reflective of Bolivia's volatile political landscape during the 1960s.

First Term: Co-Presidency with René Barrientos (1965-1966)

His initial ascension to power occurred from 1965 to 1966, when he served as co-president alongside General René Barrientos Ortuño. This arrangement emerged after a military junta, in which both played key roles, overthrew the long-standing government of President Víctor Paz Estenssoro. The co-presidency was a period of delicate power-sharing, with Barrientos often taking the public lead and Ovando Candía maintaining significant influence within the military apparatus. This shared leadership was designed to stabilize a fractured political environment. However, it was a transitional phase, culminating in Barrientos's resignation to run as a civilian candidate in the 1966 elections. Ovando Candía briefly stepped aside before Barrientos secured a clear electoral victory, allowing for a constitutional handover.

Intervening Years and Renewed Influence (1966-1969)

Following the end of the co-presidency, Ovando Candía remained a powerful and respected figure within the Bolivian military establishment. His continued presence ensured he was a key player in the nation's political calculus, even as others occupied the presidential palace. This period was characterized by ongoing political machinations and the ever-present influence of the armed forces in state affairs.

Second Term: De Facto President (1969-1970)

Ovando Candía's second tenure as president, from 1969 to 1970, was marked by an outright military takeover. After President René Barrientos tragically died in a helicopter crash in April 1969, Vice President Luis Adolfo Siles Salinas constitutionally assumed the presidency. However, in September 1969, General Ovando Candía led a military coup that deposed Siles Salinas, establishing himself as the de facto president. This term was particularly notable for its strong nationalist stance, most famously evidenced by the nationalization of the Bolivian assets of the American-owned Gulf Oil Company. This bold move resonated strongly with a populace keen on asserting national sovereignty over its natural resources, though it naturally strained relations with international partners. His government also initiated a series of reformist policies, attempting to address social and economic disparities, but faced persistent opposition and instability.

End of an Era and Legacy

Ovando Candía's second presidency proved to be short-lived, ending in October 1970 when he himself was overthrown by a counter-coup led by his former protégé, General Juan José Torres. His career is often seen as emblematic of a tumultuous period in Bolivian history, where military strongmen frequently seized and relinquished power. Despite the transient nature of his presidencies, Ovando Candía is remembered for his significant role in the military and for specific actions like the nationalization of Gulf Oil, which left an enduring mark on Bolivia's economic and political landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Alfredo Ovando Candía?
Alfredo Ovando Candía was a prominent Bolivian military leader, former Commander of the Bolivian Air Forces, and ambassador, who served twice as President of Bolivia.
When did Alfredo Ovando Candía serve as President of Bolivia?
He served non-consecutively: first as co-president with René Barrientos from 1965 to 1966, and then as de facto president from 1969 to 1970.
What does "co-president" mean in the context of his first term?
In this context, "co-president" signifies a shared leadership arrangement, particularly following a military intervention. Ovando Candía shared power with René Barrientos after a coup, stabilizing the government before Barrientos sought a civilian mandate.
What does "de facto president" imply for his second term?
"De facto president" indicates that he assumed power through extra-constitutional means, specifically a military coup, rather than through an election or constitutional succession. He held actual power, but not necessarily by legal or constitutional right at that moment.
What was a significant policy enacted during his de facto presidency?
A most significant policy was the nationalization of the Bolivian assets of the American-owned Gulf Oil Company in 1969, a move that was highly popular domestically and asserted national control over vital resources.
How did his presidencies conclude?
His first co-presidency ended when René Barrientos resigned to run for election as a civilian. His second, de facto presidency ended abruptly when he was overthrown by a military counter-coup led by General Juan José Torres in October 1970.