Bolívar enters La Paz in triumph on August 8, 1825.

During his brief rule of less than five months, he issues a flood of decrees, resolutions, and orders reflecting his ideas about government.

He declares the equality of all citizens and abolishes the tribute payments, replacing them with a "direct contribution" (contribution directa) that amounts to less than half of the previous payments.

Bolívar also decrees a land reform to distribute land, preferably to Indians, and tries to reduce the influence of the Roman Catholic Church in politics.

Most of his decrees cannot be implemented during his short tenure, but they are included in the constitution he writes for Bolivia after his departure in January 1826.

Despite his efforts at reform, Bolívar is outspoken about his doubts as to the ability of Bolivians to govern themselves.

He is careful to avoid recognizing Bolivia's independence, always referring to the country as Upper Peru and signing his decrees as dictator of Peru.

Only in January 1826, when he turns the country over to Sucre, does he promise that the Peruvian legislature will approve Bolivia's independence.