Alfredo Ovando Candía, Bolivian general and politician, 56th President of Bolivia (b. 1918)

Alfredo Ovando Candía: A Pivotal Figure in Bolivian Political History

Alfredo Ovando Candía, born on 6 April 1918 and passing away on 24 January 1982, was a highly influential military officer and statesman whose career significantly shaped the political landscape of Bolivia during the mid to late 20th century. Renowned for his complex and at times controversial leadership, Ovando Candía served as the 48th President of Bolivia across two distinct, non-consecutive periods, embodying the frequent shifts in power that characterized the nation's political trajectory.

A Distinguished Military and Diplomatic Career

Ovando Candía's foundational influence stemmed from his robust military background. He rose through the ranks to become a commanding figure within the Bolivian Armed Forces, ultimately achieving the prestigious position of Commander of the Bolivian Air Forces. This high military standing provided him with a powerful platform in a country where the military often played a decisive role in governance. Beyond his military prowess, Ovando Candía also engaged in diplomacy, serving as an ambassador, which broadened his understanding of international relations and global political dynamics.

His Presidencies: Periods of Transformation and Turmoil

The Co-Presidency with René Barrientos (1965-1966)

His initial ascent to the presidency followed the pivotal 1964 military coup, which saw the overthrow of the National Revolutionary Movement (MNR) government led by President Víctor Paz Estenssoro. In the wake of this seismic political event, Alfredo Ovando Candía emerged as a key figure, forming a co-presidency with General René Barrientos Ortuño. This period, from 1965 to 1966, was characterized by an attempt to stabilize the nation under a military-civilian junta, laying the groundwork for Barrientos' subsequent election as constitutional president, with Ovando retaining significant military influence as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

The De Facto Presidency (1969-1970)

Ovando Candía returned to the presidential office in 1969 under dramatically different circumstances. Following the sudden death of President Barrientos in April 1969 and a brief interregnum under Luis Adolfo Siles Salinas, Ovando orchestrated a military coup in September 1969, seizing power as a de facto president. His rule from 1969 to 1970 marked a period of assertive nationalism and significant state intervention. A landmark decision during this second tenure was the nationalization of the Bolivian Gulf Oil Company (BGO) on 17 October 1969, a move that resonated deeply with nationalist sentiments and aimed to reclaim control over the nation's natural resources. While his government initiated some social reforms, it also faced increasing political instability and opposition from various sectors, ultimately leading to his ouster by a left-leaning military faction led by General Juan José Torres in October 1970.

Legacy and Historical Context

Alfredo Ovando Candía's presidencies are often viewed within the broader context of military rule in Latin America during the Cold War. His actions, particularly the nationalization of strategic industries, positioned him as a complex figure who balanced military pragmatism with nationalist and reformist ideals. His tenure, though brief in both instances, left an indelible mark on Bolivia's political and economic trajectory, underscoring the powerful role of the military in shaping the nation's destiny during a turbulent period.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alfredo Ovando Candía

When was Alfredo Ovando Candía born and when did he pass away?

Alfredo Ovando Candía was born on 6 April 1918 and passed away on 24 January 1982.

What were Alfredo Ovando Candía's main roles before becoming president?

Prior to his presidencies, Alfredo Ovando Candía held significant positions as Commander of the Bolivian Air Forces and also served as an ambassador, showcasing his dual military and diplomatic expertise.

How many times did Alfredo Ovando Candía serve as President of Bolivia?

He served as the 48th President of Bolivia twice non-consecutively.

What was the nature of his first presidency?

His first presidency from 1965 to 1966 was a co-presidency with General René Barrientos, following the 1964 military coup that overthrew President Víctor Paz Estenssoro.

What characterized his second presidency (1969-1970)?

His second term was a de facto presidency established after he led a coup in September 1969. It was notable for the nationalization of the Bolivian Gulf Oil Company on 17 October 1969, a significant act of economic nationalism.

How did Alfredo Ovando Candía's second presidency end?

His de facto presidency concluded in October 1970 when he was overthrown by a military coup led by General Juan José Torres.