Monday, August 11, 2008

World News

Bolivia's Morales hails poll win



Bolivia's President Evo Morales addresses his supporters
Bolivia's President Evo Morales has claimed victory in a referendum on whether he should continue in power.

Unofficial results gave Mr Morales a convincing win, and he promised to continue his reforms, including the nationalisation of key industries.
Four of six opposition governors, who have led protests against the president and are demanding more autonomy, also won the right to stay in office.
The outcome of the vote is likely to leave Bolivia divided, analysts say.
Both sides were quick to interpret the result as a validation of their position.
"What the Bolivian people have expressed with their votes today is the consolidation of change," Mr Morales told thousands of cheering supporters in La Paz.
"We're here to move forward with the recovery of our natural resources, the consolidation of nationalisation, and the state takeover of companies," he told the crowd from the balcony of the presidential palace.

Santa Cruz's Ruben Costas said the outcome was a defeat for Mr Morales
The president congratulated the opposition governors who were re-confirmed in their posts and urged them "to work together" with him.

To read more go to: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7551994.stm

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