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New Bolivian President Spurs Pride, Worries

To many Bolivians, the former coca farmer who will officially be sworn into office Sunday represents the overdue ascension of a long-oppressed indigenous majority. To some South American neighbors, he symbolizes a new, unified generation of leaders emphasizing regional independence from the United States. Since winning the December 18, 2005 election, Evo Morales has begun to carve a public image far different from the social elites who until now dominated the political landscape here.

In Washington, some view him as a threat to regional stability and a potential roadblock to U.S. interests, including anti-drug programs and efforts to institute a hemispheric trade pact. On Saturday Morales reiterated his intention to create an assembly this year to rewrite Bolivia`s constitution to create what he envisions as a more equitable society.

For Morales, antagonizing the United States comes at the risk of jeopardizing the country`s top source of development aid. One pending grant project, administered by the U.S. government`s Millennium Challenge Corporation, would give Bolivia $598 million for road projects. It would be paid out over three to five years and would be the organization`s largest aid package to date.