Split opens in Bolivia coalition

A chief coalition partner of embattled Bolivian President Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada has withdrawn its support for the government.

The centre-right New Republican Force (NFR) withdrew its legislative support as a popular uprising against government plans to export natural gas intensified.

The party has also called for the president to resign.

"There is nothing left to do but leave (the government). This can't go on," said Manfred Reyes Villa, head of the NRF.

He made the comments outside the presidential palace after a meeting with Mr Sanchez de Lozada.

Mr Reyes Villa said the president had insisted he would not resign, despite a month-long revolt that has left an estimated 74 people dead.