55 days
05.25.2004I'll be in Bolivia for only 55 days more. Not all of it in La Paz, of course. I'll spend at least a week in Santa Cruz, another 2-3 days in Sucre, and 4-5 days in Cochabamba (if necessary). Running around trying to get election data, and hoping the last few people I want to interview can find time from the country's meltdown to speak to me (many are now involved in government offices like the National Election Court).
Interesting political developments all around these last few days, though. Evo Morales is being criticized by his own party (MAS). Tarija decided to approve the gas referendum, so voter registration in that department's extended another 15 days (it closed a few days ago nationally). President Mesa reviewed troops & thanked them for not listening to "minorities" & staying loyal, despite admitting that syndicate leaders approached them for help w/ a coup.
Also, La Paz residents were startled when a military helicopter flew over the city (I was surprised to see it over Plaza Avaroa). Reason? It's extremely difficult to fly choppers at this altitude (I think only special Russian ones can do it), so the military chopper only flies around on "important" occasions (like in February & October). Despite the semi-panic, it turns out it was used to film the latest movie by Bolivian filmmaker Juan Carlos Valdivia, American Visa.
Poker tonight at O Mundo Café. Oh, and I am taking the pictures for my little digital photography project, it's just taking longer than anticipated.
Posted by Miguel at 04:22 PM
Comments
Package..? Hey did you get the letter I sent Last Wednesday?
Posted by: Andres at May 25, 2004 05:18 PM
Are you gonna teach your own clas in the fall? Or have I heard it wrong? N.
Posted by: Nenad at May 25, 2004 07:00 PM