MEDIA REACTION ON PRESIDENT BUSH'S INAUGURATION, JANUARY

UNCLAS TEGUCIGALPA 000151 SIPDIS FOR WHA/PDA (OHILTON),WHA/CEN E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OIIP PREL KPAO PGOV KDEM HO SUBJECT: MEDIA REACTION ON PRESIDENT BUSH'S INAUGURATION, JANUARY 21, 2005 ¶1. Editorial in Tegucigalpa-based moderate daily "El Heraldo" on 1/21, titled "Bush Once Again." "Even though President Bush said yesterday during his second inauguration that he will continue with his `utmost goal to end tyranny in our world,' the strong demonstrations against him and the polls that demonstrate his low popularity show that a great proportion of American society has grown tired of his warlike administration." ¶2. Editorial in Tegucigalpa-based liberal daily "La Tribuna" on 1/21, entitled ""Second Term." "The second term of President George W. Bush has begun. The inauguration ceremony was characterized by multitudes celebrating the feat as well as opponents demonstrating in the streets of Washington, causing incidents and clashes with the police." "Several political experts said that the dichotomy in the streets near the Capitol reflected the polarization of American society during Bush's presidency." "Even though his speech addressed several subjects, there was no specific mention of Latin America. However, there were some veiled threats directed to the Cuban regime." "In general terms, the Latin American press was cautious about the start of Bush's second term, even though there were very favorable comments in some countries, expecting a better and closer relationship with the U.S. The opinions are diverse; some believe that during this term, Latin America will remain ignored while others think that Bush's firm commitment to democracy will be beneficial to the region." Pierce