Socialist Bolivian president Evo Morales is likely to win reelection and gain control of both chambers of Congress in December, according to an opinion poll published today.
Mr Morales, the Andean country's first Indian president, nationalised energy, mining and telecommunications companies in his first term and vows to expand state control over the economy if he wins the election.
He is also promising to spend heavily in social projects, including roads, hospitals and schools, and expand political rights for indigenous peoples.
According to the Ipsos Apoyo poll published by
La Razonnewspaper, some 54 per cent of people support Mr Morales - more than his closest contender Manfred Reyes, the former governor of the central region of Cochabamba, who has 20 per cent.
Conservative politician Samuel Doria Medina, a wealthy cement businessman, trailed far behind with 11 per cent.
Mr Morales would avoid a runoff if he wins more than 50 per cent of the votes, or more than 45 per cent with a 10 point lead over the runner-up.
Mr Morales, an Aymara Indian from a poor background, needs a solid victory to dominate Congress, which would allow his party to pass legislation without having to negotiate with the opposition.
He has long complained that opposition parties have used their slim majority in the Senate to block dozens of bills proposed by his government and backed by his party, the Movement Toward Socialism.
If returned to power, the president will have to deal with falling revenues due to lower prices for minerals and energy exports and dwindling Brazilian demand for natural gas, the country's main revenue earner. He will also need to tackle a strong pro-autonomy movement in eastern regions where his socialist policies are unpopular.
Mr Morales won sweeping victories in a recall vote in August last year and a constitutional referendum in January, thanks chiefly to votes from Indians, who make up about 60 per cent of the population.
Reuters