Paraguay's leftist president ousted by Congress

[Judi Lynn]

4. Ouster of Paraguay's president sparks criticism

Ouster of Paraguay's president sparks criticism
Associated Press | Posted: Friday, June 22, 2012 11:58 pm

President Fernando Lugo's rapid impeachment and ouster by lawmakers has plunged Paraguay into crisis and unleashed a wave of criticism by fellow leftist leaders in Latin America.

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His quick acceptance of his ouster appeared to have prevented a bigger confrontation and potentially violent protests in the streets of Paraguay's capital of Asuncion, where his supporters had gathered. But other South American presidents were critical of the impeachment trial, which several called a de-facto coup d'etat.

~snip~

Crowds of pro-Lugo protesters took to the streets condemning the impeachment trial and expressing support for the president. When several dozen young protesters tried to break through a police barricade to reach Congress, police in anti-riot gear drove them back on horseback and using tear gas and water cannons.

Some protesters listened to the vote on speakers set up in the street, and booed lawmakers who voted for Lugo's dismissal. When the vote was over, some chanted "Lugo president!" Others wept. After Franco's swearing in, the crowd of protesters waned.

More: http://www.stltoday.com/news/world/ouster-of-paraguay-s-president-sparks-criticism/article_8d1f43b4-256b-5720-b12a-b5eb6fee3a60.html#ixzz1ybUf2zM5