Americas News

Morales: Provincial referendum a "total failure" (Extra)

May 5, 2008, 1:44 GMT

La Paz - Bolivian President Evo Morales described the regional referendum Sunday in Santa Cruz as a 'total failure,' though the proposal for more autonomy was approved by over 80 per cent of voters in the province. The left-wing head of state again called the referendum illegal and unconstitutional. 'It did not have the success that some families in Santa Cruz had hoped for. There was no party, as they said, but violence. It was a total failure,' Morales said. Adding the 39 per cent of registered voters who did not turnout to those who voted against the proposal, more than 50 per cent of the electorate were against more autonomy for Santa Cruz, Morales argued. According to unofficial data reported in the media, some 85 per cent of ballots cast favoured more autonomy, with only 14 per cent against the proposal. Turnout was around 60 per cent. There were no official results by late Sunday. Those in favour of more autonomy celebrated on the streets.

Americas News

Morales: Provincial referendum a "total failure" (Extra)

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