Mario Argollo and Donald Trump: Parallel (Wasted) Lives
There is a critical parallel between Mario Argollo, leader of the Central Obrera Boliviana, and Donald Trump, in that both have undertaken destructive social and geopolitical conflicts driven by questionable motivations and using similar strategies. After failing in their initial objectives and encountering unexpected resistance, both figures are seeking a negotiated exit to preserve their own political survival in the face of the attrition of their respective conflicts.
The Parable of the Evil Harvester
The column allegorically critiques the mismanagement of a prosperous village by the Harvester, who reaped abundant crops without sowing or tending the land, leading to eventual decline. Despite warnings from experts, the Harvester and his loyal Cashier failed to invest in sustainable practices. The Cashier took over, planting poor-quality seeds with inadequate resources, further indebting the village while enriching his allies. Now, a new administrator, skilled in sowing, faces the daunting task of restoring the barren land amidst debts, mismanagement, and the Harvester’s lingering claims. The column questions whether the new leader will fall for the Cashier’s empty promises of future prosperity or focus on diligent sowing to ensure sustainable harvests.
Rebaptizing the State
The column suggests that Bolivia should be re-baptized in order to overcome the present and chronic crisis .
The re-baptism has two times: the exorcist time of “renounces” and the healthy time of “beliefs”.