Beleaguered President to Seek Early Elections
From Times Wire Reports
Bolivian President Carlos Mesa, besieged by street protests that have paralyzed the country, said he would ask Congress to call early elections in August to replace him.
“This is the only way to prevent a bloodbath,” Mesa said. “They have tied my hands in every way to keep me from going forward.”
Blockades set up by Indian protesters opposed to Mesa’s economic policies have caused food shortages and cost businesses millions of dollars.
Elections were scheduled for 2007, but Mesa is not eligible to run.
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