[decimon]

...in too many situations in so many countries, people will often exercise their right and vote in leaders who will strip them of their freedom.

I think post #5 has it right. The Paraguayans, like most Latin Americans, have been screwed no matter who has ruled them because all have, in fact, ruled them.

[Sal]

About that Bolivian recall: http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/08/15/opinion/edbolivia.php Everybody Loses in Bolivia’s Recall Vote.

What this really amounts to is that the communist Evo Morales is somewhat strengthened, but his freedom and capitalistic opponents in the wealthier provinces (funny how that usually goes) were re-elected too and are refusing to go along with him and still want autonomy.