New Bolivia Leader Promises Poll

The Head of the Supreme Court, Eduardo Rodriguez, has been sworn in as “caretaker” leader of Bolivia after the resignation of Carlos Mesa after both speakers from both Houses of Congress waved their Constitutional right to take up the position. He says that he will begin an electoral process in order to comply with the Constitution in finding a new President before the end of the year, and also Rodriguez stated that he wishes to continue building a fairer democratic system in the country.

The news comes with the first fatality of the protests after a miner was shot dead by a soldier near Sucre. He was with a bus load of protesters who the military say attacked a checkpoint.

Bolivia’s Supreme Court head, Eduardo Rodriguez, has been sworn in as president, paving the way for an early election aimed at ending unrest.
Congress endorsed the caretaker leader late on Thursday, after accepting the resignation of President Carlos Mesa.

Mr Rodriguez promised to call a presidential election soon.

He assumed the presidency after the speakers of both houses of Congress waived their constitutional right to become head of state.

Hours earlier, the army shot dead a miner – the first fatality in a month of protests over Mr Mesa’s handling of the country’s gas reserves.

The mainly left-wing and indigenous protesters are demanding the nationalisation of the industry and constitutional reforms to give greater rights to the country’s impoverished highlanders.

Mr Rodriguez is Bolivia’s third president in less than two years.

His inauguration and the prospect of an election was hailed by protesters, who have been holding daily demonstrations and blockades since last month.

“Bolivia deserves better days,” Mr Rodriguez told deputies.

“I am convinced that one of my tasks will be to begin an electoral process to renew and continue building a democratic system that is more just.”

Under the constitution, an election must be held be held by…

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