Pubdate: Sat, 28 Jan 2006
Source: BBC News (UK Web)
Copyright: 2006 BBC
Website: http://news.bbc.co.uk/
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/coke.htm (Cocaine)

COCA GROWER IN BOLIVIA DRUG POST

Bolivia's new left-wing government has put a coca grower in charge of 
the fight against drug trafficking.

Felipe Caceres was appointed deputy minister for social defence by 
President Evo Morales - who was once a coca grower himself.

Mr Caceres is a former mayor of a town in the coca-growing region of 
Chapare, and owns a small coca farm there.

Coca is used to make cocaine, but also has widespread ceremonial and 
medical uses in Bolivia.

Mr Caceres told the BBC he opposes US-backed efforts to eradicate 
crops across the country.

He said coca was an integral part of Bolivia's indigenous culture and 
was the only means of survival for many people.

Many people in rural areas use the leaves in tea, or chew them to 
ward off hunger and altitude sickness.

Mr Caceres said he was convinced he would help lead a successful 
fight within President Morales' government to end drug-trafficking in Bolivia.

"What we say is no to drugs, but yes to the coca leaf," he said, 
adding he would not stop production on his own plantation.

President Morales, who was elected last month as the nation's first 
indigenous leader, wants to increase the production of coca for use 
in medicines, toothpaste and soft drinks.

He has promised to fight corruption, introduce a new tax on the 
wealthy, and renationalise energy companies.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom