World briefs 10/29/06

Serbs' new constitution claims Kosovo province

BELGRADE, Serbia -- Serbians voted on a new constitution Saturday that reasserts the nation's claim on Kosovo, the breakaway province whose future status is under negotiation. But most of Kosovo's residents -- ethnic Albanians who want independence -- were left off the voter lists for the two-day referendum.

Riots in Bangladesh leave 18 dead

DHAKA, Bangladesh -- A retired justice whose appointment as Bangladesh's interim leader led to deadly riots declined the position on Saturday, but the political crisis that has paralyzed the country for two days appeared no closer to a resolution. At least 18 people were killed and hundreds were injured in two days of violence.

Sudan denies bombing four villages in Chad

N'DJAMENA, Chad -- Chad accused neighboring Sudan on Saturday of bombing the villages of Bahai, Tine, Kayarin and Bamina, four towns along its eastern border, close to Sudan's volatile western Darfur region where thousands have been displacedt. The Sudanese army spokesman, Brig. Gen. Osman Mohammed al-Aghbash, denied the Chadian report.

Brazil's president turns up nationalist rhetoric

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil -- Facing a surprisingly rough campaign, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has revived the populist rhetoric he had largely shed since taking office. His fiery speeches contrast the lives of Brazil's poor with the wealthy elite. Many Brazilians wonder whether he would push the country to the left if he wins a second four-year term in today's runoff election.

-- From wire reports

Silva, a former union firebrand and Brazil's first working-class president, faced similar fears four years ago, but calmed them by adhering to market-friendly, pro-business policies that won praise even from conservatives.

But with his administration engulfed in corruption scandals, Silva has returned to his traditional base -- the poor.

-- From wire reports