MEXICO has criticised the Organisation of American States’ (OAS) electoral observation mission for prematurely raising “concerns” about Bolivia’s elections before carrying out a full audit. 

Mexico’s representative at the OAS Luz Elena Banos said: “No-one should interfere in the elections of a country, even less say when it is not yet concluded. 

“Your job should be limited to technical advice and not try to make binding decisions.”

The OAS can provide advice or assistance under the Inter-American Democratic Charter, but is unable to rule on election outcomes. 

Mexican officials voiced concern that the OAS is abandoning its “commitment to neutrality.”

The organisation has been leading the charge in criticising left-wing governments in Venezuela, Cuba and Nicaragua.

Movement for Socialism leader Evo Morales’s re-election as Bolivia’s president was officially announced on Thursday after he gained 47.07 per cent of the votes cast — a huge 10 per cent ahead of nearest rival Carlos Mesa of the Civic Community political alliance.

Under Bolivia’s electoral law, a candidate can win in the first round, thus avoiding a run-off, if they receive either 50 per cent or more of the vote or at least 40 per cent with a 10 per cent lead.

OAS observers expressed concern at the election count having shifted from indicating a close result in the first hours to a clear victory for Mr Morales after the website went offline for a day.

The European Union backed the OAS assessment that a second round should be held “to restore trust and ensure the full respect of the democratic choice of the Bolivian people.”

Far-right protests have been taking place since October 20, egged-on by Mr Mesa, who has been demanding a run-off.

Mr Morales has branded the often violent protests a coup attempt and invited the opposition to present evidence of fraud if its exists.

During a press conference on Thursday, Mr Morales said: “The OAS mission is already in a coup d’etat” and repeated his claim that Mr Mesa was trying to steal his victory.

Many indigenous Bolivians continue to back the president, saying that Mr Mesa embodies the white Bolivian elite and has a doubtful commitment to upholding the interests of the poor.

Mr Morales, Bolivia’s first indigenous president, is now set to govern until 2025.