Afro-Bolivians tired of a lack of representation in their country have ushered in a new leader: they’ve crowned a king to lead their community and fight for their interests:

Dressed in a red cape over a white tunic, Piendo promised to “take care of the happiness and the well-being of all Afro-Bolivians” after receiving the crown and scepter from the governor of La Paz, José Luis Paredes.

“Bolivia and the world have to know that we are a people with culture and history, that we were forgotten but haven’t disappeared. We aren’t just ‘negritos’ who dance in the street and are good at futbol,” said Martha Inofuentes, leader of the Afro-Bolivian movement.

According to Spain’s 20 Minutos, Julio Pinedo, the country’s first Afro-Bolivian “king” will continue to live in his humble home in Yungas growing coca, and his 13-year old son has been named “crown prince”.

President Evo Morales was invited to the ceremony but did not attend.

Related: The BBC has a good overview of the Afro-Bolivian movement (in Spanish)

Via / 20 Minutos