Oaxaca Update Nov. 27, 2006

Governor Ruiz claims that the situation is almost under control. However, his claim is contradicted by the reality of events over the weekend.

Protesters hurling petrol bombs clashed with police in Oaxaca at the weekend in
the latest flare-up of a conflict that has engulfed the graceful colonial city in southern Mexico for more than six months. Buildings, including the supreme court of Oaxaca state, shops and restaurants, were set ablaze, and several streets were blocked by burning vehicles.

Most people were optimistic the situation woudl be under control by December 1st, the date schduled for transfer of power to incoming President-elect Felipe Calderon. That now seems unlikely with the inauguration only four days away.

In related news, self-proclaimed "legitimate President" Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has begun drawing his due salary of 50,000 pesos per month, the equivalent of around US $4,500. I'm just curious to know where it's coming from.