Facing turmoil, Calderon opts for midnight swearing-in

Dec. 1, 2006, 2:18AM
Facing turmoil, Calderon opts for midnight swearing-in
Analysts argue about significance of unusual move

By MARION LLOYD
Copyright 2006 Houston Chronicle

MEXICO CITY — With opponents threatening to block today's inauguration before Congress, Mexico's incoming president took power in an unusual midnight ceremony behind the closed doors of the presidential palace.

In a symbolic act lasting less than 15 minutes and broadcast on Mexican television, Mexican President Vicente Fox took off the red, white and green presidential sash, and said it had been an honor to serve.

Fox embraced incoming leader Felipe Calderon, who swore in his security Cabinet, including the secretaries of national defense, public security, government and the navy.

Minutes later, Calderon made a few brief remarks, vowing to bring change to Mexico.

"I'm not unaware of the complexity of the political moment ... but I believe it's time to put an end to the differences," he said. "I accept the responsibility to be president of all Mexicans, without distinction.

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Brawl Breaks Out in Mexico Congress

Dec 1, 10:50 AM ESTBy IOAN GRILLOAssociated PressMEXICO CITY (AP)

-- Leftist lawmakers threw punches and chairs at their conservative colleagues and some tried to block the doors of the congressional chamber Friday just an hour before incoming President Felipe Calderon was to take the oath of office there.

Ruling party lawmakers, chanting "Mexico wants peace," seized the speaker's platform where Calderon was supposed to appear, while leftist opponents blocked most of the chamber's doors.

The brawl was shown on live television across Mexico.

Carlos Navarette, Senate leader for leftist Democratic Revolution, or PRD, said his party would do everything it could to keep Calderon out.

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