Helicopter with Bolivian leader safely makes forced landing

LA PAZ, Bolivia – Bolivia’s Air Force says a helicopter carrying President Evo Morales has had to make an emergency landing due to a mechanical problem. It says there were no injuries.

The Air Force statement said a problem with the tail rotor prompted the midday Monday landing and it says the cause is under investigation.

Morales met earlier in the day with supportive union leaders.

Opponents are challenging official results showing him winning reelection outright last month and are demanding he either resign or take part in a new election. A term from the Organization of American States is auditing the election results, but Morales’ opponents have rejected that effort.

The leftist leader already has governed Bolivia for 14 years.