Bolivia rises

[AntiochusIII]

But of course, for Bolivia to recover from the pits of Tartarus and rise back to Purgatory it would require a real leader. This man might be, or might be not.

And they are an absolutely rare commodity since the birth of time, or just humanity. We need them everywhere and I've yet to see one anywhere in my short lifetime on Earth.

South America is one of the most troubled areas of the world, thanks to many factors, including, but not limited to, the Cold War policies of the United States. But every problem has a solution, hey. At least now, a native Bolivian holds the government of Bolivia.

But don't keep your hopes up, Soulforged, sadly...

[The Black Ship]

I don't care about his populist rhetoric. If he wants to blame the US for all his country's ills I say fine, you're wrong but fine. Nationalise the natural gas, fine, you'll still need help, that is unless you've suddenly learned how to explore, develop and build an energy infrastructure. Play to the crowd, whatever.

But,

To propose eliminating eradication is unacceptably irresponsible. His policy, I believe, is to allow production for legal use (fine), but what is the size of the market for home remedy use of coca leaves? What will happen to the surplus production? I have a guess

If governments are going to allow cultivation of plants that are used in the drug-trade, then Afghanistan should be allowed to grow poppies. Too bad if millions are affected by opium...it's not Afghanistan's problem, they only grow poppies to look at (they're so pretty).