Three Bolivian indigenous groups declare autonomy
www.chinaview.cn 2009-02-10 13:02:26   Print

    LA PAZ, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Three indigenous groups in Bolivia on Monday declared autonomy in their native homeland, as granted by the country's new constitution.

    Chiman, Yuracare and Mojeno-Trinitario, the three indigenous groups, declared autonomy in the Isiboro Secure National Park and Indigenous Territory they have inhabited for many generations, in accordance with the new constitution which took effect on Saturday.

    "We, the native peoples of Chiman, Yuracare and Mojeno-Trinitario, inhabitants of the Isiboro Secure National Parkand Indigenous Territory, declare ourselves Autonomous Isiboro Secure National Park and Indigenous Territory," the declaration said.

    "We declare ourselves autonomous to seek a better future," Adolfo Moye, president of the Indigenous Sub-central region of Tipnis, said in a speech.

    Bolivian President Evo Morales has supported the new constitution, saying it will enshrine rights for the indigenous people who make up the majority of the country's population.

    The constitution, the first approved in Bolivia by a popular vote, promises more power for the poor and the Indians, and grants some regional autonomy.

Editor: Sun Yunlong
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