Argentina: Protests over 'coup' in Bolivia

By Muhammed Emin Canik

BUENOS AIRES (AA) – Hundreds of people gathered in Argentina on Saturday to support Bolivia’s former President Evo Morales, who resigned earlier this week.

Bolivians living in Bolivia’s larger southern neighbor and left-wing NGOs gathered in front of the Bolivian Embassy in Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires.

The protestors called Morales’ resignation a “coup” and called on the international community to support Morales.

Protestors held Bolivian flags and banners saying “No coup in Bolivia.”

Bolivia was thrown into turmoil in October with demonstrations protesting the results of presidential elections in which Morales declared victory for a fourth term.

Demonstrators took to the streets, calling the results rigged.

He stepped down Sunday under pressure from the military and police.

After resigning, Morales sought political asylum from Mexico, and pledged that he would eventually return to Bolivia with more "strength and energy."

Opposition lawmaker Jeanine Anez has declared herself interim president.

*Writing by Davut Demircan