Associated Press

LIMA, Peru, May 27 -- President Alejandro Toledo declared a 30-day state of emergency late tonight, authorizing the military to clear thousands of protesting
farmers who have blocked the nation's highways.

"We have the responsibility to govern 26 million Peruvians," Toledo said in a national address. "We have the responsibility to protect citizens and the public order."

The state of emergency suspends civil liberties and gives police the authority to detain protesters and enter homes to round up their leaders without warrants. The
order also limits freedom of movement and prohibits assembly.

Toledo's announcement came after state health workers went on a nationwide strike today, joining thousands of farmers, teachers and judiciary workers protesting
throughout the country. Throughout the day, police worked to clear stretches of roadway that farmers had blocked since Monday with boulders and burning tires.

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