Bolivia Voters Say “Yes” to New Constitution

estimada erin, how is the air quality in cocha these days? i hear there has been a lot of rain. here is an example of what i was referring to in my last post (from the LA Times): "Political analyst and professor Ximena Costa said the new constitution is a step forward for Bolivia's indigenous peoples in that it gives them and their rights legal definition. But the rights, especially those regarding territory, are uncertain and contradictory and could lead to many conflicts among the communities that may try to exert control, Costa said." thanks for the reply, and keep up the informative reporting! -el chicharrone

Thanks for the question and for reading! As with any constitution, like the one in the United States for instance, there are still many wide-ranging opinions over what the texts really means for specific cases. But I would think that in the eastern gas-rich opposition providences, or the “media luna,” where racism is quite open, there will be a tougher time for compensios and the indigenous who have presided in the rural areas for generations to govern their own lands democratically without department interference, and this is where the national government will probably have to step in. Mr. Morales has already acknowledged that he will have to issue many executive decrees to actually implement the constitution.

Historically in these areas, there have been violent clashes provoked by the wealthy landowners who see themselves as the “real Bolivians.” Continued autonomy requests by these opposition departments could also cause tension. But I also think now private entities will have tougher time going into indigenous zones without a greater say from the population. Remember though, this constitution does little to redistribute the massive amounts private land that are already owned and being used by the wealthy.

If perhaps Mr. Costa could have actually pointed to articles or a sections of the constitution, I would be better able to answer his statement. But if you still have more questions please feel free to post.