Hermetic silence is maintained as to the health condition of former President Joaqu?n Balaguer, 93. Hoy newspaper reported sources saying the nonagenarian had been operated for aneurysms in one of his legs by Dr. Michael De Bakey on Sunday. But El Siglo newspaper on Monday, says this is not true. The List?n reported, he had been operated of a boil on one of this buttocks.The former statesmen few to Houston on Monday for evaluation of his circulatory problems. The man who has been President of the Dominican Republic for the most time, has throughout his lifelong career as a politician kept mute about his health. He is interned at the Methodist Hospital in Houston, where he had been treated before. Newspapers speculate that Balaguer will remain at least another week in the hospital. Despite his age, Balaguer continues to be the man to call the shots in his PRSC party. Balaguer’s support to the PLD in the year 1996 elections resulted in the triumph of today President Leonel Fern?ndez. Given the division of forces between the leading political parties, Balaguer’s support can still mean the difference in who will win the presidency in year 2000. Balaguer made his last public appearance on Jan 1, when he was photographed with President Fern?ndez. He was propped on top of several pillows, presenting a strong contrast to the vitality of the 45 year old present statesman. Balaguer was accompanied to Houston by his medics Fernando Ariza Mendoza and Oreste Guerrero, but as is his style total silence has been maintained as to developing information on his medical condition.
