CHILE: GENERAL PINOCHET'S 79TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

(25 Nov 1994) Spanish/nat

Former Chilean leader General Augusto Pinochet celebrated his 79th birthday today - but few people took any notice.

General Augusto Pinochet celebrated his 79th birthday with a salute from the military high command and his favourite music. The former leader, who has had a pacemaker for some time, appeared in good health.

Few people attended the early morning ceremony.

Pinochet was greeted by the head of Santiago's military garrison, General Carlos Krumm.

In past years, Pinochet's birthday celebration was held in front of his residence in a wealthy suburb of Santiago. This year the military honoured him in front of the Armed Forces headquarters.

Recently, Pinochet moved to a mansion that he had built for himself and his family in the exclusive residential area of La Dehesa, in the Chilean capital.

General Pinochet ruled Chile for 16 years after heading a bloody military coup in 1973 which overthrew democratically elected President Salvador Allende.

During the first year of Pinochet's rule, nearly two-thousand people were reportedly killed in a campaign launched against Allende supporters.

In March of 1990, President Patricio Aylwin replaced Pinochet as head of state. However, Pinochet remains commander-in-chief of the Army until 1997, thanks to a law passed during his presidency.

SOUNDBITE:

"Anyone's birthday is important. But it's especially important in the military because this is our commander-in-chief and we love him and respect him."
SUPER CAPTION: General Carlos Krumm

SOUNDBITE:

"I think it's wonderful that it's his birthday. I hope he has many more."
SUPER CAPTION: Spectator

SOUNDBITE:

"I'm happy even if I have to give my best wishes from afar. I hope he has many more."
SUPER CAPTION: Spectator

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