Press Compilation: Bolivia Political Situation and Unidentified Object Report, 17 May 1978

This document is a compilation of press reports dated 17 May 1978, covering political developments in Bolivia and a reported incident involving an unidentified object. The first section details statements by the Bolivian President, Banzer, regarding the potential suspension of upcoming elections due to political and electoral violence, and his support for the candidate Gen. Juan Pereda Asbun. The second section reports on an unidentified object that allegedly fell in Bolivian territory near the Argentine border. According to the reports, Bolivian authorities requested assistance from the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to determine the nature of the object. The area where the object reportedly fell was cordoned off by local authorities for security reasons. The object is described as a mechanical device with a diameter of approximately 24 meters, and it was reportedly brought to Tarija. There was widespread uncertainty and speculation in the region regarding whether the object was a satellite, a meteorite, or a false alarm. The final section notes a declaration by the Bolivian National Electoral Court in response to the Socialist Falange, stating their willingness to resign their posts while maintaining their commitment to their duties.