Bolivian opposition stymies president

LA PAZ, Bolivia, March 8 (UPI) -- Bolivian lawmakers refused Tuesday to accept conditions set by President Carlos Mesa for remaining in office, making his resignation a greater possibility.

Lawmakers must still decide whether to accept his resignation. If they don't, Mesa will likely remain in office until his mandate expires in 2007.

Mesa had called for an end to protests that during recent months have hampered commerce and day-to-day living in the poor South American country. But opposition groups said they would make no such compromise.

Mesa sent a letter of resignation to Congress Monday, citing overwhelming difficulties dealing with the nation's opposition. He assumed the presidency when former President Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada left office in October 2003 amid widespread protests.

He had become increasingly frustrated with protests by labor groups and others that dogged his administration and ndicated in recent weeks he might resign.