Brazil interrupted
The world's biggest sporting event, showcasing the best-loved sport, taking place in the nation most associated with the beautiful game is a combination seemingly made in heaven. However, in the lead up to the 2014 FIFA World Cup now just 21 days away, host nation Brazil has become the site of much unrest -- which has its roots in the demand for better pay and working conditions ahead of the tournament and elections in October -- that has been bubbling under the surface for some time now.
Protests broke out on Tuesday, involving groups as diverse as bus drivers, the general public and the police force. Further undermining the lead-up to the World Cup is yesterday's news that two out of the 12 venues will not be able to provide fans cell phone and internet coverage.
TROPHY TOUR GOES SOUR
Demonstrators angry with the billions being spent on Brazil's hosting the World Cup burst into the hall where the tournament trophy, on tour around the host country, was on display.
Protestors hurled rocks and chunks of wood at the historic building in Belem, the Para state capital, where the trophy was on display. Organisers called off the viewing and whisked out the golden trophy.
BUS FUSS
Meanwhile, about 300 striking bus drivers and fare collectors marched to the mayor's office to demand a meeting with mayor Fernando Haddad. Other drivers stopped their buses in the middle of the street and asked their passengers to get off.
Sao Paulo, a city of 11 million people will host the opening match. Its 15,000 buses are a key part of its transit system.
Local transport officials said 230,000 passengers in the country's business hub had been affected by early afternoon, a figure likely to increase in the evening rush hour.
The striking drivers are rebelling against their union, which agreed to a 10-percent pay increase in negotiations with management.
COP OUT
Not to be left behind, the police announced a 24-hour strike for Wednesday in 14 states, including six that will host World Cup matches. In some states the strike could paralyse up to 70 per cent of the civilian police force.
Affected states include Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Minas Gerais, Bahia, Pernambuco and Amazonas, all of which are home to World Cup host stadiums.
Federal police will also hold protests Wednesday, though they have decided not to go on strike for now.
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