This is going to be the biggest electoral year in Bolivia’s history, it seems. So far 2008 has seen four departments hold their own autonomy referendums, a special by-election for prefect in Chuquisaca, and a nationwide recall referendum. Now it looks like we’ll see yet another round of elections: two referendums on the proposed constitution, by-elections for the prefects of La Paz & Cochabamba, and the country’s first ever elections for subprefects (provincial governors) & departmental councils. The elections are scheduled for December 7.
Evo has also announced the creation of an Autonomies Ministry to advance regional autonomies w/in the context of the new constitution. Not surprisingly, the prefects of the Media Luna departments are opposed, though their arguments are quickly losing coherence. It’s unclear what compromise might be possible, since Evo has left the country for visits to Iran & Libya immediately after issuing the electoral decrees.
Meanwhile, clashes between pro- & anti-MAS groups continue in Tarija, Pando (where the airport has been seized by regional civic groups), Beni, and the Chaco region.
Evo has left the country for visits to Iran & Libya
I realize this is off topic, but I find it odd that Evo doesn't choose to visit a few more "normal" countries as well. As long as he's in the neighborhood, why not Dubai or Turkey or Tunisia? I guess I understand that he wants to go visit two countries that are sure to grab attention and annoy the US. But why not add on a few where economic and political relations could be quietly and effectively improved? It seems like a waste.
Well, he's been traveling to Libya for some time on a regular basis (he was in Libya, not in Bolivia, during most of the "gas war"). I think leaders in those countries have some legitimate interest in reviving something like the non-aligned movement of ages past. But I also think Evo would be better served if he visited Europe, say. Particularly since he'll need foreign economic assistance (and/or debt forgiveness) to achieve many of his policy goals.
Does the word pawn mean anything to you? Evo does not have a coherent plan. Evo obeys Hugo's bidding. Hugo gets nothing from Evo making nice with the Europeans. He relishes the control he displays when Evo visits other out of control dictatorships or misguided alienated governments.