Morales Closes In on 2nd Term

Bolivia’s President Evo Morales, opinion polls running heavily in his favor, appeared headed for a second five-year stint as president as voting wrapped up Sunday. The “peasant president” commands wide support among the country’s poor indigenous people—65 percent of the population. —JCL

The BBC:

Bolivians are electing a new president, with opinion polls tipping Evo Morales for a second five-year term.

Bolivia’s first indigenous president wants to expand state control over the economy and redistribute profits from the gas industry, if re-elected.

His support base is chiefly among poor indigenous people who account for some 65% of the population - in contrast to his main conservative challengers.

A referendum earlier backed changes to allow presidents to seek a second term.

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AP / Juan Karita

Foes have accused Morales of having “totalitarian” ambitions.