Resounding defeat in mid-term vote shows little confidence in Pastrana's leadership.(Colombia)(Brief Article)

BOGOTA -- The near total defeat of the ruling Conservative Party in last weekend's municipal elections has raised questions about the legitimacy of President Andres Pastrana and his ability to bring an end to the various conflicts wracking the country. US military officials in Colombia as well as leading local analysts say a series of blunders and the electoral defeat have weakened Pastrana.

The widespread perception that his government is vulnerable appears to have emboldened right-wing paramilitaries, which have taken eight members of Congress hostage (See box on page 4.), ...

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