Morales claims victory in Bolivian election
Morales claims victory in Bolivian election
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Monday, 07, Dec 2009 11:40
By Richard James.
Evo Morales has claimed victory in Bolivia's presidential election after exit polls suggested he had acquired around 60 per cent of the total vote.
The provisional results place current president Mr Morales over 35 per cent ahead of his nearest rival Manfred Reyes Villa, who is believed to have obtained just 23 to 25 per cent of the vote, giving him a second four-year term.
Bolivia's first indigenous president delivered a victory speech to supporters on Sunday from the presidential palace.
"By holding two-thirds of congress it now is my duty to accelerate the pace of change," he said.
He also called on the opposition to join the ruling Movement for Socialism party.
"Let them come work with me. Bolivia comes first, above any demand from any group or religion," Mr Morales declared.
Earlier this year, the president held a referendum, which he won, allowing him to change the country's constitution lifting the one-term restriction.
If Mr Morales' re-election is confirmed the United States can expect a continuation of difficult relations with the South American country.
Last year Mr Morales expelled the US ambassador and Drug Enforcement Administration claiming they were undermining his government.