Bolivian Congress accepts Mesa resignation

LA PAZ, Bolivia - Bolivian lawmakers have voted to accept the resignation of President Carlos Mesa and clear the way for Supreme Court President Eduardo Rodriguez to succeed him in a move that could defuse weeks of crippling protests and open the way for new elections.

Mesa resigned on Monday after three weeks of indigenous protests blockaded the capital to demand nationalization of the country's energy reserves.

Senate President Hormando Vaca Diez declined to assume the presidency as called for in the constitution after Indian leaders and many Bolivians said he was unacceptable and demanded early elections.

- REUTERS