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In Bolivia, Evo Morales puts his agenda to the test

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President Evo Morales of Bolivia seeks a new mandate for his socialist agenda today in a nationwide referendum that reflects deep divisions in this troubled South American nation, reports Patrick J. McDonnell.

Morales, his vice president and eight state governors face recall votes that could throw them all out of office. Polls indicate that Morales is likely to retain his job, though several governors who oppose his policies could be ousted.

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McDonnell reports that ‘a tense atmosphere prevails across the country. Violent anti-government demonstrations and airport blockades forced the cancellation of an energy summit with the presidents of Argentina and Venezuela. There have been threats to obstruct the vote and reports of gunfire directed at the vehicle of a Cabinet member.’ ‘ ‘I’m sorry to say it, but now the dictatorships of the ‘60s and ‘70s are being replaced by some groups that take airports, occupy electoral offices and take shots at ministers’ cars,’ Morales said at a rally last week.’

Read the full report on the state of affairs in Bolivia here.

— Deborah Bonello in Mexico City

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