barrio flores

Mayo 04, 2005

Latest Bolivia News

Towering over La Paz Mayor Juan del Granado, Mexican President Vicente Fox (standing six-foot-five) was given the key to the city and the prestigious Condor of the Andes. However, his visit was not well received by all. Several MAS Congressmen showed their discontent with Fox's visit. (Picture here)

En esa sesión, los diputados Iván Morales, Germán Yucra, Félix Santos, y el senador Bonifaz Bellido, todos del MAS, se pusieron pasamontañas, como las que usan los zapatistas de México. Luego explicaron que fue una señal de desaprobación a la gestión de Fox. Así recibieron a un invitado oficial del Estado boliviano, durante una sesión de honor.

Yet, Fox's visit was deemed successful as an eye-opening trade deal to export 400,000 tons of soya was signed, which could also open the door to a possible sale of Bolivian gas to Mexico.

At the press conference held on Tuesday, Fox acknowledged Bolivia's support for the Mexican candidate Ernesto Derbez to head up the Organization of American States. He also recognized Bolivia's call for a return of access to the sea.

"Este mismo concepto, el concepto de la unidad, nos lleva precisamente a trabajar con vehemencia, con convicción y con pasión para apoyar esta demanda marítima, este diferendo que hay entre estos dos países", afirmó sobre la demanda marítima boliviana.

All of this talk of trade between two Latin American countries comes at a time when Congress and the President have a tough decision on what to do with the gas reserves.

Under the current law, Bolivia has one of the lowest royalty rates in the world; the new legislation would bring it in line with other Latin American countries, which charge on average from 25 percent up to more than 50 percent in levies, said Victor Hugo Carazas, senior adviser to the Bolivian Congress on the gas issue.

See the Economist magazine's graphic on the comparison across Latin America.

So far, the Senate passed a law that would require 18% royalties plus a 32% flat tax, which would obligate the companies to adhere to this new change. Now Mesa must decide whether to sign or veto.

If the Lower House approves the measure as expected, the president may make good on a threat to veto the bill, and brace for explosive street protests. If he signs what the oil sector denounces as a ''confiscatory law," companies have threatened to take the country to international arbitration, where industry analysts say Bolivia will likely lose. And Mesa could face protests anyway from those who think the royalties are not high enough.

Some sectors are calling for a full-scale nationalization. Perhaps the law passed by the Senate is a compromise as they are banking on the fact that the companies may be bluffing. They argue that the reserves are far too large to ignore.

''A beggar sitting on a throne of gold" is how a former Bolivian secretary of energy describes his country's frustrating predicament.

Now the question is how much of that gold will the beggar receive?

Posted by eduardo at 10:29 AM | Comments (0)

Febrero 21, 2005

Genocide It Is

What do you think of when you hear the word - genocide? Auschwitz, Darfur, Rwanda? How about Goni and El Alto? The Attorney General's office in Bolivia has six months to present the case of genocide against former President Gonzalo "Goni" Sanchez de Lozada.

The Bolivian Congress insisted he should be accused of genocide - a term usually reserved for the systematic and planned extermination of an entire national, racial or ethnic group.

Two of his ministers, Carlos Sanchez Berzain and Yerko Kukoc were also named in these charges. His entire cabinet has also been named as accomplices. The charges stem from the deaths of 60 in El Alto and approximately 200 injured during the unrest of October 2003. Goni and Sanchez Berzain currently reside in the United States and may face extradition

Posted by eduardo at 10:43 PM | Comments (3)

Enero 01, 2005

Top Ten Bolivia Stories of 2004

In the most unofficial of formats, here are ten stories that stood out in my memory in 2004.

Bolivia Gas Referendum

For the first time in over 70 years, Bolivia participated in a direct democratic exercise. Even though the vaguely-worded questions left the door open for broad interpretation, democracy in Bolivia shifted, if only for one day. The vast majority of Bolivians did not heed the call to boycott the vote or burn ballot boxes. No longer were Bolivians reliant on representatives that really didn't represent them at all. The peaceful exercise of democracy dominated all 9 departments. Each of the five questions passed decisively. However, in the six months since the final vote was cast, Bolivia still does not have a new Hydrocarbons Law.

Most of Congress has intepreted the results as a mandate to nationalize all of the hydrocarbons, including obligating all multinational companies to change the existing contracts. President Mesa is looking to pass a more moderate Law. This will be the most pressing issue in the beginning of 2005.

New Actors in Municipal Elections

Incumbents reigned supreme on December 5th. In the cities of El Alto and La Paz, voters turned their backs on violent social movement leaders (de la Cruz) and embraced a (minor) political party (Movimiento Sin Miedo), respectively. In the other two major urban centers, Santa Cruz and Cochabamba, it was business as usual. Alliances were formed in exchange for patronage rights. For the first time in Bolivian history, indigenous groups and citizen groups were given the right to participate in the elections without being part of a political party. Even though many of these citizen groups operated as political parties, with many ex-politicos, they were seen as an alternative. MAS was the political party that received the highest total of votes, yet fell short in winning one of the four major urban cities.

Goni on Trial

After a lengthy debate in Parliment, lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to place Goni on trial. Mind you this vote took place in full campaign mode, where very decision, stance, and vote had the upcoming municipal elections in mind. Some politicians tried to capitalize on Goni's basement favorable ratings. Many speculate that Goni cannot receive a fair trial in Bolivia, because he has already been found guilty in the court of public opinion. Just recently attorneys began interviewing key actors. Shouldn't the investigation take place before placing someone on trial? Some speculate that Goni may be extradited, but threats on his life may provide him with asylum.

The Call For Autonomy

I'll never get tired of repeating myself: Autonomy and decentralization is a great concept. Who else is better to understand and meet the needs of local people, than local governments? However, it has become evident that those individuals and groups (CAINCO and other elite businessmen) pushing for the autonomy solution, are only doing so because they want to form their own centralist power structures. Just take a look at the coalition that was formed in Santa Cruz. Both Ivo Kuljis and Oscar Vargas would benefit greatly from the consolidation of power.

Tens of thousands of Cruceños were duped in believing in that these leaders were pushing for autonomy out of no ulterior motive. However, these leades are very shrewd and know how to appeal using populism and at times, playing the race card. Bolivia is not ready for such a widespread decentralization. There are no mechanisms to ensure that such a top-down centralist type of government wouldn't take place on local levels.

Bolivar Reaching International Final

As much as it pains me to include them, most of the country set aside allegiances to their own local club team to root for a Bolivian representative. Bolivar, the La Paz club, beat Aurora (BOL), Concepcion (CHI), Arsenal (ARG), and LDU (ECU) to face the most successful South American team, Boca Juniors. However, Bolivar did not take advantage of their home field. Only winning 1-0, Bolivar then headed to Buenos Aires where they lost 0-2.

Mesa Continues to Ask for Sea

We saw President Carlos Mesa everywhere, making the loss of access to the sea as a central issue. At every international gathering, Mesa asked that his Latin American friends join him in pushing Chile into returning the sea to Bolivia. Even President Hugo Chavez said that he hopes someday to be swimming on a Bolivian beach. Recently the Bolivian strategy has shifted from a multilateral approach to seeking dialogue bilaterally with Chile. No changes are imminent. But for now, Bolivians will have to resort to basking in the sun in Arica or Iquique (Chile).

Lynching in Ayo Ayo

The unspeakable took place just months after a similar even took place in Ilave, Peru. The late Bejamin Altimirano, mayor of Ayo Ayo, was kidnapped in La Paz and driven back to his hometown of Ayo Ayo. There, he was beaten, tortured and ultimately burned to death. Claims of communal justice tried to mask savagry. Many claim that Altimirano was a corrupt public official, but that never justifies the horrendous crime that painted Bolivians as heartless and lawless. Members of the Movimiento Sin Tierra are still behind bars for their role in the murder.

Evo and Mesa, an Unlikely Team

Some said that Evo was an unofficial part of the government from the way he was acting. Cries of "sell-out" appeared not to faze Evo, who knew that his more moderate position would work well in the upcoming elections. In comparison to radical leftists like Jaime Solares and Felipe Quispe, Evo really didn't seem so bad. Evo came out in favor of the Referendum, maybe because he knew that the vague questions could help his cause. After the Referendum, Evo and MAS reverted back to their roles in the opposition. Mesa continues to govern without a political party and has alienated some in Congress. However, his relationship with Evo Morales and MAS has been one of the most important factors in Mesa lasting 2004.

Miss Bolivia's Comments

What seemed to be comments lost in translation turned into an international incident. Miss Bolivia, Gabriela Oviedo, offended many Bolivians by generalizing both those from the Western side of the country, as well as those in the East. Clearly Bolivia enjoys a multi-ethnic and pluralist country, but her comments were very disparaging. However, some of the reactions passed along through forwarded emails or jokes making the rounds often played up on these generalizations. It really shouldn't have made a big deal of, but one of the reasons it made this list was because of the reaction generated.

My Return to Bolivia

In October, I returned to Bolivia after a yearlong absence. I found a more optimistic Bolivia upon my return. Things were still tough for many people struggling with unemployment and underemployment. Still I felt that Bolivia was my home. Hopefully I will be heading back to Bolivia semi-permanently sometime in 2005. Plus, in 2004 Barrio Flores was born.

Posted by eduardo at 09:10 PM | Comments (1)

Diciembre 01, 2004

Andean Free Trade Agreement

Negotiations resumed yesterday in Tucson, Arizona for the Andean Free Trade Agreement (AFTA) involving the Andean countries of Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru. Bolivia is participating as an observer. The trade in question not only includes goods and products crossing respective borders, but may also include measures to deregulate and privatize essential services such as water service, telecommunications, roads, and health care (in Latin America, obviously).

U.S. negotiators are looking for a greater liberalization of the Andean countries’ abilities to control business within their borders, a control that could potentially give preference to local vendors or nationally-owned companies. Other items on the U.S.’ agenda include greater restrictions on prescription drugs. The millions of poor in Latin American depend on generic versions of popular drugs, but the new laws may restrict access and extend monopoly rights for giant pharmaceutical corporations. Copyright and other patent laws are also on the table.

The U.S. is also looking to broaden investor-state legal mechanisms, which would give corporations the increased rights to sue governments in a third-party court. No longer would national laws apply within their own borders involving these lawsuits. These laws would provide greater leverage in protecting investments and other poorly negotiated agreements.

The Andean countries are simply looking for increased fairness, namely in the farm subsidy field. Subsidies provided to U.S. farmers have helped drive prices down to a point where it is often cheaper to import foreign food products than to produce them locally in these Andean countries. The lack of markets is only one of the reasons the Alternative Development program failed in Bolivia.

Subsidies have been a touchy subject in trade talks, and you might remember Brasil’s stance that pushed the issue to the forefront at the WTO meetings in Cancun in 2003. President Lula assembled other developing nations to form the G21 group to rally behind the elimination of these subsidies that would level the playing field for countries that have rich agricultural traditions. Trade fairness should be one of the top priorities in these talks.

Posted by eduardo at 01:31 PM | Comments (0)

Noviembre 29, 2004

No Ruling on Aguas del Tunari Case Yet

Speculation arose last month that the international tribunal, (Icsid) from the World Bank was ready to hand down a ruling concerning Aguas del Tunari. Speculation also followed that the ruling wouldn’t be very favorable for Bolivia. As you may remember, the “Guerra del Agua” in Cochabamba forced the Banzer adminstration to scrap privatization plans for that city’s water system. In turn, the consortium, with Bechtel at the forefront, sued the Bolivian government, a move now legal because of a previously-signed agreement.

However, no ruling appears imminent. In addition, it appears as if Bechtel has reached an agreement with the Bolivian government, but the other member of the consortium is still looking for financial damages.

The deputy minister denied there was any substance in local press reports that the government was on the point of losing the case, meaning it would have to pay US$25mn in compensation.

"The tribunal has not yet decided whether it is competent to hear the case let alone decide its merit," he said.

What made the murmurings even more a cause for concern was that in coincided with the debate about the Hydrocarbons Law. Some said the rumors of a huge cash reward to the consortium was a sign of things to come, if and when, the Congress forced the oil companies to adhere to the new law unwillingly.

Posted by eduardo at 04:40 PM | Comments (0)

Noviembre 28, 2004

Bolivia - Week in Review

A bomb rocks the Ministry of Defense in La Paz. Fortunately, the explosion took place at night and no one was injured. This was the latest explosion by dynamite in the last ten days. Other targets included a military installation and the television channel P.A.T., which current President Carlos Mesa was one of the founding members. These explosions, in which a former ministry official in the Banzer/Quiroga adminstration was arrested for his participation, coupled with rumors of another coup involving the U.S. Embassy have brought added tension to the political landscape.

Gas is discovered in the Department of Potosi, which is a blessing and curse at the same time. Whether or not this gas will be industralized or exported may be a moot point. Officials say that this gas is already owned by Zapata Corporation, which is a multinational corporation where former President George H.W. Bush owns a large holding. Ministry of Hydrocarbons officials say that the detail is untrue. This could make the issue even more polarizing.

Mexican President Vicente Fox will swing by after a trip to Peru. These bilateral and regional talks will mostly center on the hydrocarbon export issue.

A "Guerra del Agua" Part II may be brewing in El Alto. The privatized water service, Aguas del Illimani, has been the target of an association of Neighborhood groups (FEJUVE), which says that the company has not been completing its duties. The private company employs 400 Bolivians and has already invested $63 million dollars in the city. The Superintendent of Basic Sanitation says that Aguas del Illimani has met all of its measurable goals, but there will be an evaluation to review the Neighborhood Groups' complaints. FEJUVE has announced a possible strike for this coming week.

On a brighter note, Bolivar took home an important point from Quito in la Ida(first leg) of the Copa Sudamericana semifinals. Down 0-1, Argentine forward Horacio Chiorazzo struck a perfect ball that beat the Liga Deportiva - Quito goalkeeper giving la Academia an excellent opportunity to win this Thursday night. The winner gets a chance to play the Boca Juniors (Arg) - Internacional (Bra) winner.

Posted by eduardo at 10:41 PM | Comments (0)

Noviembre 24, 2004

Resource Webpage

I ran across a great website: enlared.org, which provides great information regarding municipalities, legislation and other public information. Over the weekend, I am going to spend some time investigating. An example of some information I found:

Monthly (Official) Salaries for the Mayor (2003):

Santa Cruz: Bs. 20875 ($2,609 USD)
La Paz: Bs. 19500 ($2,437 USD)
Cochabamba: Bs. 16000 ($2,000 USD)
El Alto: Bs. 9600 ($ 1,200 USD)

Minimum National Wage: Bs. 440 ($55 USD)

Note: Miguel B. asked whether the numbers were correct. I had to double check that the amount given was a monthly wage and not an annual wage. This article in El Deber shows that the mayor's salary is 47 times that of the minimum montly wage.

Posted by eduardo at 05:29 PM | Comments (3)

Noviembre 15, 2004

Bolivia Makes Millenium Challenge List

Bolivia is one of 16 countries that have qualified to receive aid from the Millenium Challenge Corporation for the coming year. Because of its place as one of the world's poorest countries and because it shows sign of stability (in comparison with places in complete chaos), Bolivia can stand to receive grant money from the estimated $2.5 billion dollar pot.

Countries eligible must submit proposals outlining specific projects that the money will be used towards. However, the basis on which countries will be approved will be how sound their economic policies are (i.e. making sure the hydrocarbons law doesn't radically change). From the MCC website:

Reward Good Policy: Using objective indicators, countries will be selected to receive assistance based on their performance in governing justly, investing their citizens, and encouraging economic freedom.

Privatization?

Nevertheless, this is a great opportunity to have a bit more leverage so that governments and politicians can improve efficiency and reduce corruption. But on the other hand, this is the type of coercion that the IMF and World Bank employ, essentially making decisions for the governments in exchange for aid.

Posted by eduardo at 12:46 PM | Comments (2)

Noviembre 12, 2004

Incidents of Violence in Santa Cruz

Even though, the strike in Santa Cruz was a relative success in the eyes of the regional "leaders", as predicted there were strong-armed tactics and violence towards those that did not choose to join the strike.

En las ediciones meridianas, los medios televisivos cruceños mostraron imágenes de grupos de brigadistas que emplearon chicotes para obligar a los transportistas que no acataron el paro a detenerse, e incluso pincharon llantas para evitar que los motorizados se pongan en marcha. En otros puntos de bloqueo se vio a personas en estado de ebriedad que controlaban el cumplimiento de la medida de presión

These are the same tactics used in the Occident that many in Santa Cruz mock in disdain. They claim that this is what separates them from the rest of the country. But in the end, the tactics are the same.

Posted by eduardo at 11:30 AM | Comments (2)

Noviembre 11, 2004

Santa Cruz in Paro

As promised, the Comites Civicos of Santa Cruz and Tarija have come through on their threat. An organized general strike began this morning at 12 a.m. For the next 24 hours, no markets will be open, no cars, buses, or taxi will operate, and businesses will be closed. Now, it is not a national holiday, nor is it a mandated law, but the civic leaders and other leaders have a way of making people comply.

Their demand is for a Referendum to take place this year for Regional autonomies. The government's position supports autonomies for all the regions, but have said that this is an issue that should be discussed in the upcoming Constituent Assembly.

Apparently, the strike is supported by the transportistas, campesinos, and other gremialistas. But as with any strike, those most affected are the working poor, who usually hope to sell enough product that day to put food on the table.

In order to make sure that no vehicles circulate today, the Unión Juvenil Cruceñista have graciously volunteered their time to monitor this prohibition on vehicles. Most likely if this group of noble young patriots runs across a taxi cab trying to earn a living, these young men will calmly discuss the matter with the cabbie and encourage him to join in their crusade.

Or the Unión Juvenil will use violence to threaten those that don't share their views. Back in October 2003, this group of thugs attacked a group of campesinos (mostly of an indigenous background), who tried to enter Santa Cruz' main plaza asking for Goni's resignation. This targeting of poor mainly indigenous Bolivians is an example of racist hate-crimes that target so-called "collas".

As usual, with any strike, whether called by the COB, COR or Comite Civico of Santa Cruz, it ultimately hurts that region's economy. It is estimated that 8 million dollars will be lost because of this protest. In a country, where some people live off of 1 dollar a day, the rich elites heading this strike won't feel the same degree of pinch.

The leaders have also announced that they will blockade the roads within the city.

Posted by eduardo at 09:56 AM | Comments (1)

Octubre 28, 2004

Extremism

Plans for a department-wide strike, threats of a refusal to pay taxes, and even whispers of an orchestrated golpe, sounds like the shenanigans of the COB (Central Obrero Boliviana), right? Guess again, but now the same tactics used by the far-extreme left are being used by the far-extreme right. The Comite Civico of Santa Cruz held one of their famed Assemblies of the Cruceñidad, where some of the richest men in Bolivia played a game of who can puff out their chests and come up with the best rhetoric.

These oligarchs are trying their damndest to play the same game that Roberto de la Cruz and Jaime Solares made famous. Distorting the words of the government and playing the populist in order to generate support for their interests. Right now, I imagine Zvonko Matkovic, a Yugoslavian immigrant hoping to divide Bolivia in the same manner of his former homeland, is wetting himself at the thought of an independent Santa Cruz, where he and his cronies create their own system of centralism.

Much of this sentiment has resurfaced after President Carlos Mesa appeared on the television interview program "El Hombre Visible", where he was asked about the situation in Santa Cruz and Tarija, two areas dominated by these civic groups. Many, who didn´t even see the program acted on hearsay and speculations.

The government had to go the lenghts of placing an ad in the newspaper El Deber clarifying the exact quote:

Padre Pérez (interviewer): "Entiendo que tiene dos preocupaciones en este minuto: Santa Cruz y Tarija, parece que no los convence todavía, ¿qué pasa?"

Presidente: "Yo creo que la naturaleza del problema es distina entre Tarija y Santa Cruz, son dos departamentos con problemáticas diferentes. Para Santa Cruz el tema es una cuestión de esfera de poder. Santa Cruz es un departmento que tiene el liderazgo indiscutible del país. Y es un departamento que todavía no asume ese liderazgo nacional y sigue trabajando sobre la lógica de que hay reivindicaciones regionales que están por encima de su liderazgo nacional. Si Santa Cruz no resuelve ese problema no es una confrontación con el President sino es una definición sobre sí misma y sobre lo que Bolivia puede y debe esperar de Santa Cruz. Ahí creo que las elites cruceñas siguen entrampadas en una visión provinciana de las cosas, lo que no quiere decir que no entienda y admire profundamente el que Santa Cruz está donde esté porque no estaríamos hablando de Santa Cruz como lo estamos haciendo si ese departamento no hubiese generado en los últimos cuarenta años esta nueva dinámica creativa, positiva, constructiva..."

PP: Interrupts with other question

The day after the elite leaders and some random Cruceños interviewed on TV said that the President called the inhabitants of that department provincianos and that he doesn´t recognize that Santa Cruz is the most important economic region of Bolivia. Clearly from that quote, one can see that the President states and has stated in the past that Santa Cruz is very important to the country, and is supporting the country. In the same manner that La Paz and Potosi supported the rest of the country during various times in Bolivia´s history.

Just as the COB and COR, with their medidas de presion, dominate the headlines and seem to appear to speak for all of the Occident, these Civic Groups and elite business leaders also appear to speak for all of Santa Cruz. Unfortunately, the civic groups of Santa Cruz have mastered the art of propaganda, where many Cruceños have bought into the us vs. them mentality, when actuality the oligarchs really want their own centralist system where they are the sole benefactors. Pitting that region against the President, without placing any blame on the region´s Congressional representatives or prefects, works nicely within their plan of action.

These two extreme parts of the country are eerily similar in their rhetoric and their actions. Peharps Zvonko Matkovic and Jaime Solares should meet, they would make a good team.

Posted by eduardo at 02:21 PM | Comments (0)

Octubre 22, 2004

Goni Wants to Stay

In a rare interview granted to the Miami Herald, former President Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada reiterated that he does not believe he can receive a fair trial in Bolivia. The former President stated that he would prefer being tried by an outside independent judge, and mentioned Spanish judge Baltazar Garzón as a possibility.

However, Bolivia and the United States have a treaty which requires the extradition of the accused. Yet, Goni has been looking for ways to remain in the U.S.

Sánchez de Lozada has retained Steel, Hector and Davis LLP, a Miami law firm, to study his options, which include the possibility of requesting asylum in the United States. He said he was living in the United States on a F2 visa, given to spouses and dependents of students. His wife is enrolled in an English language program at Georgetown University.

I do not know the legal requirements for granting asylum, but just as long as radical extremists continue to say that once Goni sets foot on Bolivian soil, then he will be lynched, then the asylum plea due to the threats on his life, would seem more plausible.

Posted by eduardo at 06:33 PM | Comments (0)

Octubre 20, 2004

Not Making This Up

Former President and all-around bad guy Slobodan Milosevic could be heading to Bolivia. The United Nations has formally requested that Milosevic be kept in a prison in Bolivia. The prision "El Abra" could be the site of Mr. Milosevic´s new home in exchange for the UN payment towards the prisoners´ meals.

Posted by eduardo at 09:04 PM | Comments (1)

Octubre 14, 2004

Goni On Trial

A Bolivian television channel broadcasted live the Congressional vote to determine whether ex-President Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada would stand trial. The poorly configured sound system did not allow for clear understanding of each Congressperson´s opinion or vote. However, in the end, the result was Goni will stand trial, along with his entire cabinet.

The first vote that called for only Goni and cabinet members Carlos Sanchez Berzain and Yerko Kukoc fell two votes short in order to gain 2/3 majority.

However, when members of Goni´s MNR party announced that they would support a trial for Goni only if the entire cabinet was named as accomplices. Many speculate that this public support, which would implicate members of the ruling coalition parties, such as NFR and MIR, would cause lawmakers from those parties to reconsider their votes.

What made the two-hour transmission interesting, was seeing the chaos and lack of respect among Congress. The telvision viewer, acting as a voyeur, caught glimpses of Evo Morales throwing a wadded-up piece of paper at another Congressman. One also heard the strong words of one Congresswoman castigating her fellow lawmakers who cowardly left the chamber to avoid having to make a public vote. Whenever, a member of the MNR voted "No", one could hear chants of "ASESINO!"

In the end, it appeared as if the MNR´s strategy backfired because the 2/3 majority vote was achieved. One MIP representative publicly ridiculed their strategy, saying that Goni´s former party was "knocked-out."

How this will play out is anybody´s guess. There are rumors that Goni holds American citizenship and won´t have to return to stand trial. Yet, the American ambassador to Bolivia David Greenlee said that that was not true, but refused to comment on whether Goni would be extradited.

Posted by eduardo at 10:34 PM | Comments (4)

Septiembre 29, 2004

One Cocalero Dead

One of President Carlos Mesa’s self-professed accomplishments over the past year has been the avoidance of violence between the various social sectors and the government. Even though yesterday’s death of cocalero Juan Choque ended that streak of a year free of bloodshed, some are quick to place the entire blame and Mesa and his government without taking into consideration the responsibility of the cocalero movement.

The event took place far from the streets of the urban centers, where cameras and reporters could have better understood that morning’s occurrences. We only have the word of the two sides, and each has a stake to appear as the innocent party acting only in self-defense.

Immediately after word came that violent confrontation took place in the Reserve Isiboro-Secure 250 km from Cochabamba, and far from the beaten trail of the Chapare, newspapers dispatched reporters to try to piece together what took place. The daily La Razon:

“Según el dirigente, los enfrentamientos se registraron por la provocación de los uniformados, a pesar de que en la mañana, en una pequeña reunión con los militares se acordó que no habría erradicación.

Salazar (cocalero leader) sostuvo, sin embargo, que los militares rompieron su compromiso y atacaron a los campesinos disparando sus armas y ocupando la escuela de Bustillos, incluso con los niños estudiantes adentro.

El comandante de la Fuerza de Tarea Conjunta (FTC), teniente coronel Darío Leigue Moreno, afirmó que los campesinos emboscaron a los soldados y policías que se dirigían a erradicar cultivos de coca.

Sostuvo que los cocaleros no sólo utilizaron piedras, palos y machetes, sino también dinamita y hasta armas de fuego, situación que obligó a los uniformados a hacer también uso de sus armas de reglamento.

Looking at the webpage for Bolivia Indymedia, for a different perspective, the lead article makes sure to emphasize that the cocaleros are the only innocent and honorable party.

“Durante la vigilia pacífica del movimiento cocalero para resistir la erradicación forzosa de coca, las Fuerzas de Tarea Conjunta al no cumplir con lo acordado salieron por detrás a erradicar ocasionando un enfrentamiento..”

Extra emphasis is written that all events and assemblies by cocaleros are peaceful (in case you missed it the first time).

Nota: Se seguirán realizando las concentraciones masivas y las vigilias de manera pacífica

Evo Morales, who at times has been trying to play the role of reasonable opposition leader, declared from left-field, “Yo no sé si es una provocación del Gobierno o del Gobierno de Estados Unidos para desestabilizar la democracia. Esto vamos a investigar".”

Besides the death of the 37 year old man, there are also 9 injured campesinos, including a four year old child. However, there are also injured campesinos, who happen to be wearing military uniforms. In a sense, this pits people from similar communities against each other, and often ends tragically.

From La Razon:

Heridos Uniformados: Néstor Quewaña Veizaga, Rubén Cayo Mamani Sullcani, Fortunato Quispe Poma, José Apaza Apaza. Police officer Mario Laime Laura con herida aparentemente de bala en el dedo medio del pie derecho

Judging from their names and applying a blanket generalization, the surnames would suggest that these are poor young men from indigenous backgrounds who were doing their jobs.

There have been reported instances of military soliders, often as young as 18 that have been thrust into this mountainous task, having overstepped their bounds by violating basic human rights. Often lacking in sensitivity in dealing with this issue, it's easy to see how these soldiers are placed in a no-win situation. Obviously there have been many instances where the military have used extreme force and harsh tactics, but too often the extreme left takes the position that there can only be one wrong party in these situations. Yet, there are always two sides to every story and a shared responsibility.

Posted by eduardo at 03:13 PM | Comments (0)

Septiembre 23, 2004

Carlos Mesa at the UN

Thank heavens for CNN en Español, the cable channel that broadcasted live Carlos Mesa’s address to the United Nations.

As expected, he reiterated Bolivia’s longstanding claim for access to the Chile. Mesa will speak to whoever listens and always at an international meeting of world leaders. He said that "El problema marítimo boliviano se ha convertido en la piedra en el zapato de ese camino a la integración.”

Everyone knew that the subject was coming, even the Chilean ambassador prepared a rebuttal in advance to counter Mesa’s claims. Maybe it’s never kosher to call out another country in front of your peers, and perhaps the Chilean ambassador was trying to hide behind the ambassador from Chad, so the cameras wouldn't focus on him when the guy at the podium is talking about him.

It's possible that Mesa is trying to copy the high school boy who repeatedly asks the prettiest girl in class for a date. She always says "no", but the boy desperately keeps trying. Finally, she agrees only to shut him up.

Stories:

Carlos Mesa interpela a Chile en el pleno de las Naciones Unidas (Los Tiempos)
ONU: Mesa pide salida al mar y Chile reitera negativa (El Deber)

Posted by eduardo at 04:18 PM | Comments (2)

Septiembre 21, 2004

Mesa in New York

President Carlos Mesa is scheduled to address the United Nations on Wednesday. Among the topics he is expected to address include the Referendum results, the ongoing diplomatic struggle to regain access to the sea, and the current state of Bolivia.

He also appeared on CNN where he was asked:

CNN: - Cuéntenos ¿qué ha sido lo más difícil en esta labor presidencial del primer año?

MESA: - Hemos heredado un país con una fuerte convulsión interna y sobre todo con una relación quebrada entre Estado y sociedad. Vivimos en medio de tensiones y de demandas muy fuertes. Con respeto a los derechos humanos, que es lo más difícil, los resultados demuestran que es posible negociar, solucionar los conflictos sin que tengamos que buscar la represión o contar con víctimas humanas.

That pretty much summed up his first year in office.

Posted by eduardo at 11:47 PM | Comments (0)

Septiembre 19, 2004

One Billion Dollars

Any plan that touches the volatile coca leaf and cocaine issue will undoubtedly be received through leery lenses. Past experiences of forced eradication, human rights abuses, alternative development failures, and a sense of imposition would make any cocalero highly skeptical.

Yet, Bolivia has no choice in the matter. Spurned by external pressues, namely from the United States embassy, the Government of Bolivia (GOB) has to make due and find a way to make the plan work. Recently the GOB released their new plan titled, "Estrategia Integral Boliviana de Lucha Contra el Tráfico Ilícito de Drogas 2004-2008," with a whopping budget of $969 million dollars. Roughly 89% of that money will be funneled through external international sources.

What makes this plan different than the doomed Plan Dignity, which was resisted throughout the Chapare and Yungas Region? Primarily, the Minister of External Relations Juan Ignacio Siles explained that no longer will this effort be imposed upon the communities affected, as every effort will be made to work in conjunction with unions, community groups, and farmer associations to determine where and how the money will be used.

Easier said than done. Some groups already say that this plan has been imposed on them and no dialogue took place before it was released.

Those on the far left continue to capitalize on the illusion that all coca is grown for traditional and medicinal purposes. Yet, they never acknowledge the fact that a large majority of the coca grown is destined for cocaine production. If this leaf is so sacred, and has been for centries, then why is it allowed to be used (knowingly and unknowingly) for the manufacturing of an illegal and illicit product?

Granted, cocaine use is largely a U.S. and Western European problem, but it affects poor Bolivians far removed from those areas.

Money is the only reason why this crop continues to be grown in both those regions. Both the Chapare and Yungas regions are typical examples of rural extreme poverty. Poor infrastructure and the lack of basic needs can only be diminished by additional funds, where perhaps, a family can send their child to the doctor in one of the urban centers.

These regions need development. No one disputes that the income from the sale of coca to these third-parties cannot be rivaled by alternative development plans for banana, papaya, etc. But development is much more than equalling income levels, it also is access to education, health and clean water.

Like any other government project, a large portion of these funds will be channeled through agencies and development organizations. The bulk of these funds should be used for basic needs, such as the construction of hospitals, schools, and water sanitation projects. This new plan seeks to improve these areas throughout the country, so that people are not tempted to move to the Yungas and Chapare.

Likely, this plan will be met with resistence, and rightly so, because past experiences have not been totally successful. But it's time for the cocalero movement to admit that a large portion of the coca leaf goes towards cocaine production and use the reduction of that as a bargaining chip - one that brings actual and meaningful change in those regions and helps improve the lives of the inhabitants of those regions.

To see an example of a biased look at this issue please watch the film titled "Chew on This".

Posted by eduardo at 11:02 AM | Comments (5)

Septiembre 13, 2004

Goni Speaks

Last week, word circulated that Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada had recorded a videotape in his Washington, DC office. The content of this tape was a guarded secret. Members of his party (MNR) acknowledged the tape, yet refused to provide more details.

Secrecy like this suggested revealing information that could send the country into a tizzy. Perhaps Goni wanted to admit that he took the reserved funds with him on his flight out of the country. Perhaps Goni had evidence linking then Vice-President Carlos Mesa to the violent clashes between the military and the protestors. Perhaps Goni wanted to reveal that he was, in fact, Evo Morales' long lost father.

Well, on Sunday night, the one minute and 48 second-video was broadcast across the country. Its content was tame, in comparison to my vivid imagination.

It's been nearly ten months, since Goni resigned the Presidency. Since then, growing sentiments among some sectors are pushing for a trial of responsibilities against the ex-President, in order to find out whether he was responsible for the death of approximately 60 Bolivians.

In his message, Goni reiterated that he did not flee the country with an overflowing suitcase of money. He also stands in support of further investigation of what actually happened those violent days in October 2003.

These types of trials are often no-win situations. Some sectors, who are pushing for this legal proceeding, won't feel that justice has been served unless Goni ends up in Chonchocoro, a maximum security prison in the Altiplano. Many like, Jaime Solares of the COB, want to include Carlos Mesa in this trial of responsibilities. .

Goni also suggested that "everyone" should be included in this investigation. Whether or not this implies his Vice-President, Cabinet ministers, or coalition leaders, is still unknown.

However, any trial should not discount or in the very least investigate the role of protest leaders, including how these movements were funded. Many still point to Manfred Reyes Villa (NFR) and some have even suggested that Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez played a role.

To not include some of the leaders like Solares and Roberto De La Cruz in holding some responsiblitiy in the events during that Black October, is missing the point. When protest leaders threaten individuals who do not join in to the marches/protests or use colorful language inciting violence, suggesting that they will not negotiate, then tempers hover at dangerous levels.

It is the government's responsibility to protect the safety and well-being of all of its citizens. Often this means facing a group of people who refuse to remove blockades preventing food, fuel and free movement in and out of La Paz and more than likely there will be confrontations. Obviously both the protestors and military each hold fault with what took place.

Members of the MNR have suggested that Goni will return to the country in December. With the results of the Referendum potentially adding more to the country's treasury, municipal elections where independent groups may gain increased participation, and a Constitutent Assembly on the horizon, it's a shame that too many people are dwelling on the past. Bolivia has the opportunity to continue to try new things in its democracy. This trial will be very complex, and any result will not satisfy everyone.

Posted by eduardo at 06:34 PM | Comments (1)

Septiembre 06, 2004

Bolivia News and Notes

Tuto Leaves ADN

In an expected move, ex-President Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga formally resigned as head of the ADN (Accion Nacional Democratica) party. Citing a desire to “participate in the construction of a national project, outside of the party system, that strives to unite forces in order to strengthen Bolivia in the 21st century,” and in other words, Quiroga is looking for a way to operate in a political society that doesn’t look favorably upon political parties. Quiroga left the party which he was Hugo Banzer’s Vice-President. After assuming office when Banzer resigned, Tuto was ineligible to run for President in 2002. This moves leaves ADN practically on its last legs.

MAS Announces Protests

The Movimiento Al Socialismo (MAS), headed by Evo Morales., has announced a series of protests on September 24th and October 17th. The major issue is the nationalization of all hydrocarbons, which Morales claims that the Referendum results call for an annulment of all existing contracts with the oil companies. This very issue is still being discussed in Congress, where Mesa has accepted a compromise. Instead of the “Ley Corta” offered and rejected by Congress, the President pledged to work with the Congress and to include parts of Congress’ Law.

Killer is Older Brother’s Friend

The murderer of a 9-year-old girl in La Paz was apprehended after the little girl’s friend, who was hiding and witnessed the killing, was able to positively identify the suspect. Nineteen-year-old Benjamin Quispe, a classmate of the victim’s older brother, supposedly went to visit the brother to ask him advice on how to make money. When it was discovered that the two girls were home alone, Quispe tried to take advantage in order to rob household items. As he attempted to take a computer, he was confronted by the younger sister. When panic set in, Quispe stabbed the girl repeatedly.

Quispe confessed to the killing, claiming that he was desperate for money in order to buy a plane ticket to the United States. When in that country, he would be able to sell a kidney for $6,000. That money would go towards his mother’s medical expenses.

At Least It was not a Goleada

It only took 48 seconds for Ronaldo to score off of a corner kick in Sunday’s World Cup qualifier game held in Sao Paulo. Heading into halftime, Bolivia was severely outskilled and outmatched all of the first half. Defensive lapses and silly fouls allowed Brasil to score on a penalty kick and two corner kicks. After two key substitutions, a different Bolivia team emerged from the locker room. Looking more confident, Bolivia scored an early second half goal where the match remained 3-1. In the most optimistic sense, at least Bolivia did not embarrassingly as in previous trips to Brasil, where it lost 0-5 and 0-6. Up next are two crucial home matches against Peru and Uruguay in mid-October.

Posted by eduardo at 02:42 PM | Comments (1)

Junio 17, 2004

Mayor Killed by Townspeople

In a disturbing course of events, the Mayor of the small town of Ayo Ayo, located 80 km from La Paz was kidnapped, beaten to death and his body burnt. Benjamin Altamirano was found in the main plaza, a victim of a severe and brutal case of vigilante justice.

After being kidnapped from La Paz, he was driven back to Ayo Ayo, where he ultimately lost his life. There was a long history of threats of violence spanning back to 2001, where Altamirano was under constant abuse and even registered a formal complaint with the police fearing for his life.

Townspeople say they were frustrated by the lack of public investments through the Mayorship and the disappearance of approximately 5 million dollars destined for the town's use. This was the end of a sad chapter where he was repeatedly assaulted and his house burned to the ground, after he was cleared of corruption charges.

Already five suspects have been named by the family as possible perpetrators of this murder. The names were published in a La Paz daily. However, these types of public declarations can increase the tension. These accusations, even those of corruption, can evolve into a life of their own and become hearsay where the line between truth and hysteria can incite emotions that make this behavior seem acceptable. Without clear proof, individuals decide that they can decide a person's fate regardless of evidence, with the backing of a mob-mentality of onlookers.

The victim's family are sure that the murder was associated with a political, economic and power struggle, led by former town officials who want a piece of the financial action themselves. The deceased's family has vowed that if justice doesn't solve this case, then they will take matters into their own hands.

Everyone is denouncing this crime, including Waldo Albarracín, the Defensor del Pueblo (public ombusdman) and various government ministers. A full investigation is underway.

However, a member of the MIP party (Movimiento Indígena Pachacuti), Gabriel Bautista said he was sorry that this even happened, but reminded that this type of communal justice happens, when the legal course of action does not "work".

This is a reoccurring theme on the Altiplano. Last April a similar event occurred in the town of Ilave, Peru, where the Mayor also accused of corruption was killed and his body burned. As these events become more common, towns and entire regions can increasingly become lawless areas where the State no longer has control.

Events like this leave me frustrated and question how human beings can resort to this type of behavior. No one quite knows all of the factors that lead to this crime. Maybe he was corrupt or maybe it was political jealousy, no matter what, no reasons can ever justify this.

Posted by eduardo at 05:46 PM | Comments (0)

Mayo 28, 2004

Bolivia's Worst Ambassador

What is the biggest misconception about your country (Bolivia)?

Faced with that question during an official interview, where a candidate’s personality is supposed to shine through, Gabriela Oviedo, Bolivia’s representative to the Miss Universe pageant replied:

"Well unfortunately people that don't know Bolivia very much, think that we are all just Indian people from the west side of the country. It's La Paz and all the image that we reflect is that poor people and very short people and Indian people.

I'm from the other side of the country, the East side, and its not cold, it's very hot. We are tall and we are white people and we know English. So all that misconception that Bolivia is only an Andean country is wrong. Bolivia has a lot to offer and that's my job as an ambassador of my country to let people know how much diversity we have."

Underneath the ignorance shown by this Santa Cruz resident, there is a point that cannot be disputed. The average person around the world without much in-depth knowledge of most countries, latches on to the most commonly used scene, most newsworthy or most famous tourist attraction for that country's image. La Paz is such a unique city sitting inside a giant crater with Mt. Illimani overlooking the city’s skyline. Tourists, when limited to one destination in Bolivia overwhelmingly choose the capital. But why make this point using such racist and ignorant statements?

Yes, Bolivia’s very diverse with 39 ethnic groups. After adding immigrants from Japan, Yugoslavia, Germany, African slaves from Senegal and Spanish colonizers, etc., then the richness of this diversity becomes even more vivid. As each group adds distinct customs, music, and foods, the richness of this diversity can only make our country even more appealing. Yes, Bolivia is much more than just La Paz and the Andes.

However, her blatant disdain for those on the other side of the country erased any credibility that she had. Her naïve generalizations of people both in the Occident and the Orient proved that she truly was living outside of reality. If she would venture further away from her Department’s capital, I’m positive she would encounter very large numbers of poor people and very short people and Indian people.

When asked about the biggest tourist attraction in Bolivia, she never mentioned Lake Titicaca (the highest navigable lake in the world) or the Salar de Uyuni (an incredibly unique salt plain). Once again, her blinders only allowed her to mention some unnamed national parks for eco-adventures on “her side of the country.”

She was one of the few Latin American candidates who replied in English. Do you think she was misquoted?

Believe me; I had to endure replaying her answer over and over in order to transcribe it. It was crystal clear, because the people from the west side of the country speak English.

Well, maybe she was nervous and everything came out wrong.

Another interview in the magazine La Epoca , she displayed many of the same worrisome tendencies. Here, she praised and self-identified herself with the Nacion Camba, an ultra-right populist organization that is laced with racist overtones. Unfortunately it’s ironic that she’s supposed to be representing the entire country, but all of her statements make it clear that she is only representing herself.

Generalizations are very dangerous and reveal the lack of any sense of cultural understanding, but maybe she enjoys using them in her everyday language.

How about this generalization, Srta. Oviedo?

Models are dumb.

Doesn’t quite feel so good, does it?

Note:If you want to see the complete video see here.

(Also posted on Living in Latin America http://www.livinginlatinamerica.com/archives/000252.html)

Posted by eduardo at 08:24 PM | Comments (0)

Octubre 17, 2003

October Events - Santa Cruz

En Santa Cruz

1 de octubre. La COR-Montero se declaró en huelga de hambre, sumándose al movimiento de presión de la entidad matriz en La Paz.

2 de octubre. El Comité Cívico y empresarios emitieron un pronunciamiento exigiendo autonomía.

4 de octubre. Gonzalo Sánchez de Lozada llegó a Santa Cruz y resaltó el discurso de los empresarios privados que hace referencia a ‘la Bolivia productiva’ y cuestionó a ‘la Bolivia de los bloqueos’.

6 de octubre. San Julián, Santa Rosa y Yapacaní fueron las regiones de Santa Cruz donde se focalizó el conflicto. Los privados pidieron aplicar la ley antibloqueo.

9 de octubre. Desde Montero partió una columna de marchistas de la COD hacia Santa Cruz.

11 de octubre. La Nación Camba se opone a los bloqueos que fue convocada por la Confederación Sindical Única de Trabajadores campesinos de Bolivia. Señalaron que las medidas de presión no representaban el sentir de los campesinos cambas.

12 de octubre. Mientras las fuerzas del orden mataron a más de 20 personas en El Alto, campesinos de Yapacaní marchaban hacia Santa Cruz. Los vuelos aéreos a La Paz fueron suspendidos.

13 de octubre. Empresarios cruceños rechazaron la actitud de Carlos Mesa, respecto al rompimiento que tuvo con Sánchez de Lozada. La capital cruceña estaba tranquila, el mayor foco de tensión se encontraba en el Norte, con una marcha.
Un muerto y cuatro heridos en San Julián a causa de un enfrentamiento con policías. Los empresarios privados de Santa Cruz apoyan al Gobierno. El presidente de la Cainco, Zvonko Matkovic declara: “El Ejército no está masacrando; ni la Policía ni el Gobierno son culpables, es la gente que está provocando”.

14 de octubre. Guido Áñez, ministro de Agricultura, se reunió con los empresarios privados de Santa Cruz. La Brigada Parlamentaria Cruceña mantuvo una reunión con el Comité pro Santa Cruz. De ambas citas salieron documentos casi calcados: apoyo a la gestión de Goni.

15 de octubre. Marcha de campesinos y del MAS por el centro de la ciudad provocó que la gente cierre sus negocios.

16 de octubre. Pueblos étnicos y de DDHH instalaron huelga de hambre en Santa Cruz para exigir la renuncia de Goni.

17 de octubre. Campesinos marchistas del sureste de Santa Cruz y colonos de Yapacaní ingresaron a la plaza principal. Se enfrentaron con miembros de la Nación Camba y de la Unión Juvenil Cruceñista. En la noche, Goni se fue a EEUU desde Viru Viru.

from: El Deber

Posted by eduardo at 07:08 PM | Comments (0)