Democracy Now: Tensions High in Oaxaca as Fox Warns Force Might Be Used to Crush Uprising

(Thanks to Chris for alerting me to this crisis)

Tensions High in Oaxaca as Fox Warns Force Might Be Used to Crush Uprising
Democracy Now

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In Oaxaca, Mexico, tensions remain high over concerns that the government is planning to use force to crush a populist uprising there. Over the weekend, military aircraft began flying over Oaxaca City and additional troops were deployed to nearby army posts. We go to Oaxaca to get a report from independent journalist John Gibler. [includes rush transcript]
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In Oaxaca, Mexico, tensions remain high over concerns that the government is planning to use force to crush a populist uprising there. Over the weekend, military aircraft began flying over Oaxaca City and additional troops were deployed to nearby army posts. A headline in the Mexico City daily Milenio proclaimed, "Preparations for war in Oaxaca."
Over the past few months, tens of thousands of striking public school teachers have been joined by indigenous, youth and labor organizations to launch a widespread campaign of civil disobedience in Oaxaca. The protesters are calling for Oaxaca governor Ruiz Oritiz to resign. Protesters have blockaded streets and government buildings and have taken over the state-run television station.

President Vicente Fox has said he will resolve the standoff before he leaves office at the end of November and has not ruled out the use of force.


Vicente Fox, President of Mexico: "While the possibility exists to reach an agreement we will continue to insist on it, in reaching an agreement and resolving everything in that manner. If this does not happen, violations of the law must always be stopped, and must be punished. This government is ready to fulfill its responsibility on both accounts. First, to promote a dialogue, to look for a democratic understanding, and, to always uphold the application of the law."

Meanwhile, leaders of the Oaxaca populist uprising said they would not attend a round of negotiations set for today in Mexico City. They accused the government of using the proposed forum as an attempt to legitimize the use of force.

Flavio Sosa, a leader of the People's Popular Assembly of Oaxaca: "This is like double talk, like a forum that is attempting to be an ultimatum. We are not going to accept it. This town has a peaceful vocation. We are right and most of society is with us. This is a peaceful fight, I want to insist."

To Listen/Watch/Read the Segment