Bolivia “failed demonstrably” in war against drugs, says Obama

In Presidential Memorandum–Major Illicit Drug Transit, Presidential Determination No. 2011-16, September 15, 2011. MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE; SUBJECT: Presidential Determination on Major Illicit Drug Transit or Major Illicit Drug Producing Countries for Fiscal Year 2012. US President Barack Obama, says about Bolivia: “Pursuant to section 706(2)(A) of the FRAA, I hereby designate Bolivia,…

Bolivia: TIPNIS; La Paz strike briefs… UPDATE 9/16/11

TIPNIS: Indigenous group received from current Bolivian government, a 15-16 pages letter regarding the issues from the TIPNIS protest walk; only 4 lines of that letter addressed the main issue: road through the TIPNIS (did not respond to the main point and concern of the indigenous people). Indigenous leaders were very critical of Bolivian’s president attitude,…

Bolivia: La Paz city on strike tomorrow 9/16/11

Because of the claims of three rural municipalities against La Paz city boundaries. The Civic Committee of La Paz has decided to call for a strike tomorrow Friday, September 16, 2011. Private Banks said the will be open but alert in case there is turmoil, and they will close doors immediately. The public transport service, public schools…

Bolivia: Uncontrolled fires and smoke in Santa Cruz

With a drier climate, slush and burn practices and wind, fires go out of control. The photograph here shows the municipality of Santa Rosa del Sara (El Deber, 9/15/11); today Thursday 15th, fire was stopped 500 meters from the town; however there is still danger that the wind could carry burning ashes and start new fires….

Bolivia: blockade is lifted in the Chiquitania, Santa Cruz

The road and railroad blockade that started as of zero hours today, was lifted. Road transportation is restored, no news about railroad operations, per El Deber’s website. However, there is still the threat that blockade could start again sometime tomorrow… they are also requesting that the Customs National Director, Marlene Ardaya resigns from that position, as…