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Enero 28, 2005
Live Footage of Cabildo
Even though the Megavision streaming video of the Santa Cruz cabildo has been sputtering, I was able to hear some of the populist rhetoric during the over-produced public gathering. In addition to some angry orators, Azul Azul was slated to perform and tens of thousands of flags were given away.
There were some reports that the government and the unelected (from the general population) civic leaders arrived at an agreement last night. The reports were that the Prefects from all the Departments, not just Santa Cruz, would be elected by the people. In addition, the Referendum on Autonomies would take place before the Constituent Assembly. However, from the sound of things that was not enough to appease the civic leaders.
It appears that the cabildo will “elect” a Department governor. I guess if you didn’t make it down to the cabildo, then you are out luck. You might have better luck voting in this weekend’s Iraqi elections.
I don’t want to jump the gun, but if these self-appointed leaders attempt to take control of government buildings, then state intervention must take place. Already there has been concern that members of the Union Juvenil Cruceñista, who have taken control of INRA may jeopardize thousands of title applications and records of thousands who have tried to claim lands legally (instead of occupying).
Generally, the election of prefects is a great thing. Too bad those in Santa Cruz have no plan for the rest of Bolivia, and could care less about the other eight Departments. But, there is still no guarantee that a popular-elected Prefect would stay out of patronage free-for-all and form their own centralized government unit.
This is all so beautiful, a movement fueled by propaganda, media monopoly and over-dramatization of political problems.
Update: I am glad that no such announcement of new governor took place. I hope the leaders will accept the agreement of direct election of Prefects, so that the country can continue to move forward.
Posted by eduardo at Enero 28, 2005 05:09 PM
Comments
Viva Santa Cruz!!!!!!!
Posted by: Diego at Marzo 6, 2006 09:23 PM