Bolivian opposition senator Jeanine Anez has declared herself interim president of the South American country following Evo Morales' resignation, BBC News reported.
Bolivian Senator Jeanine Ánez declares herself interim president
STEPANAKERT, NOVEMBER 13, ARTSAKHPRESS: Lawmakers from Mr Morales' party boycotted the session, meaning there was no quorum for the appointment.
But Ms Áñez said she was next in line under the constitution and vowed to hold elections soon.
Mr Morales condemned the announcement, describing Ms Anez as "a coup-mongering right-wing senator".
The former president has fled to Mexico, saying he asked for asylum there because his life was in danger.
The former deputy Senate leader assumed the position following a series of resignations.
The parliamentary session to appoint her was boycotted by lawmakers from Mr Morales' leftist Movement for Socialism party, who said it was illegitimate.
"Before the definitive absence of the president and vice president... as the president of the Chamber of Senators, I immediately assume the presidency as foreseen in the constitutional order," Ms Áñez said to applause from opposition lawmakers.
Bolivia's highest constitutional court backed her assumption of power.
