LA Times News

LA Times News

Cuba dissident blogger arrested

Posted: 05 Oct 2012 06:33 PM PDT

Blogger Yoani Sanchez, who had planned to cover the trial of a conservative Spanish politician accused in the death of Cuban dissident Oswaldo Paya, is arrested along with her husband.

MEXICO CITY — Cuba's best-known blogger, a prominent critic of its government, was arrested by authorities, apparently to prevent her from covering the trial of a conservative Spanish politician who is accused of causing the death of a Cuban dissident in a car crash this summer.

Fear factor could tip Venezuelan election, analysts say

Posted: 05 Oct 2012 04:58 PM PDT

Most polls still give the edge to President Hugo Chavez, but challenger Henrique Capriles continues to gain ground. Some voters say they're afraid of retribution if they support the opposition.

CARACAS, Venezuela — In choosing between incumbent Hugo Chavez and challenger Henrique Capriles in Sunday's presidential election, Venezuelans will weigh differing policies, sharply contrasting personal styles and a consideration that observers say may tip the balance among voters: the fear factor.

Thousands march for reform in Jordan

Posted: 06 Oct 2012 12:00 AM PDT

Led by the Muslim Brotherhood, demonstrators hold the country's largest rally since the region's Arab Spring protests began. While the king remains popular, changes to parliament are sought.

AMMAN, Jordan — Thousands of demonstrators seeking democratic reforms and more economic opportunities marched through the Jordanian capital Friday in the largest rally here since the "Arab Spring" protests began sweeping the region.

U.S. investigators leave Libya consulate in Benghazi

Posted: 06 Oct 2012 12:00 AM PDT

A team searches the wreckage for evidence and moves on without interviewing witnesses of the attack that killed the ambassador and 3 others, guards say. It was unclear if the team would return.

BENGHAZI, Libya — The investigation of the deadly attack on the U.S. consulate in eastern Libya faces major hurdles, even after a U.S. team gained access to the charred compound this week for the first time.