Indianz.Com

Indian leader loses presidential bid

MONDAY, AUGUST 5, 2002

After 24 hours of colorful debate punctuated with speeches in Native languages and feasts on coca leaves, Bolivia's Congress picked a new president on Sunday.

Former President Gonzalo Sánchez de Lozada was chosen 84-43 over Evo Morales, an Indian activist. The two had garnered the highest votes in a June election.

Morales has called for the growing of coca, the plant that produces cocaine.

Get the Story:
Bolivia's Ex-President Regains Post (The Washington Post 8/5)
Bolivia Congress Picks Ex-Leader Over Coca Advocate (AP 8/5)