Chuquisaca’s prefect, David Sánchez, has resigned. The MAS candidate was elected in December 2005, during the country’s first prefectural (gubernatorial) elections. Since, technically, prefects are appointed by the president (according to the current constitution), it’s unclear whether there will be a new election. Meanwhile, rumors are flying about a possible military intervention (a “militarization”? a declaration of martial law?) in the city of Sucre (the capital of Chuquisaca department).
In the letter, Sánchez writes [my translation]:
“... in line w/ the process of democratic & cultural change taking place in the country & in line w/ my principles of respect for the integrity, dignity, and honor towards people & principally in defense of life, I am not willing to assume the cost of unnecessary confrontations that assail the public’s rights.”
I think this is more than a resignation; it’s a pointed criticism of the current government. It marks how MAS has slowly driven away long-time social-democrats & traditional socialists in the middle class intelligentsia.
Evo is refusing to accept his resignation, arguing that since Sánchez was elected, he is duty-bound to stay. Meanwhile, La Razón reports that Adrián Valeriano is acting prefect of Chuquisaca, though there is much discussion about who should replace Sánchez. But, clearly, this makes the volatile situation in Sucre—which is racked by anti-government demonstrations of various stripes (university students, civic committees, some rural campesinos, some professional associations, etc.)—even more delicate.
Whatever happens, it seems clear that a large portion (perhaps a majority?) of the citizens of Chuquisaca will reject any imposition of a new prefect appointed (not elected). After all, there is today also the announcement (proclamation?) of a six-department Junta Democrática.
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PS. There seems to be an explanation for Sánchez’s resignation: 10,000 MAS supporters are set to march on Sucre.
