Leftist leader takes reins in Mexico vowing to help poor

Leftist politicianAndres Manuel Lopez Obrador assumed Mexico's presidency with a promise to profoundly transform Latin America's second-biggest economy and to lead a government free of corruption.

Seemingly tireless at age 65, Lopez Obrador breezed through a day of public appearances Saturday that included taking the oath of office and speaking to Congress and attending an inaugural celebration at Mexico City's vast main square.

He received a spiritual cleansing by indigenous leaders as part of the festivities, then closed out the gathering with a folksy 90-minute speech to the thousands of jubilant fans jamming the Zocalo vowing to help the poor in a nation where almost half the population lives in poverty.

"We are going to govern for everyone, but we are going to give preference to the most impoverished and vulnerable," Lopez Obrador said.

"For the good of all, the poor come first."
Speaking in a personal style he honed over decades of small-town rallies, he told the crowd: "Be patient and have confidence in me."
They call themselves "AMLOvers" and break into chants of: "It's an honour to be with Lopez Obrador."
"He's not corruptible."
"I repeat my commitment: I will not lie, I will not steal or betray the people of Mexico."