A Vote on Mr. Chavez

Washington Post ^ | June 12, 2003 | staff

[Cincinatus' Wife]

Venezuela's neighbors, including the United States, have watched the crisis in Caracas with growing alarm but have shrunk from taking significant action. A support group of countries created last year to support Mr. Gaviria's mediation, including the United States, Mexico and Brazil, has failed to play a significant role. Now they have another opportunity. Venezuela's president needs to hear from the region's leaders that his persecution of opponents and attempts to dodge a fair referendum are unacceptable. There should be no more putting off Venezuela's crisis: The chance for a democratic solution may soon be lost.

[Cincinatus' Wife]

Hugo Chavez - Venezuela

[Free the USA]

http://www.freerepublic.com/perl/bump-list

[livius]

The chance for a democratic solution may soon be lost.

I hate to say it, but I think it was lost a long time ago.

[Cincinatus' Wife]

Yes. You can't have an agreement when only one side obeys the conditions.

[Principled]

So Chavez was elected, but refuses to stand for re-election?

[Cincinatus' Wife]

He's rightfully nervious about the results. He likes his arrangement better.

[Principled]

So all this mess has been about trying to remove him before the scheduled election?

When is the election scheduled?

[Cincinatus' Wife]

Chávez is creating a political abyss - The Venezuelan nightmare***Even though the constitution allows for early elections, and even though Chávez has promised that he will abide by this provision, the great majority of Venezuelans don't believe him. They are convinced that in August, when the constitution contemplates a referendum on the president, the government will resort to delaying tactics and dirty tricks. With international attention elsewhere, Chávez will use his power to forestall an election and ignore the constitution.

Venezuela's citizens have been heroically peaceful and civil in their quest. All they ask is that they be given a chance to vote. The world should do its best to ensure that they have that opportunity. ***

Also check out Posts # 9 & 10.

[Cincinatus' Wife]

And # 12.

[Principled]

Thanks for the links... i'll read later. Now I'm looking for an outline summary that will set up some more in-depth reading.

BTW is FR functioning properly for you this am?

[Cincinatus' Wife]

No it's not functioning right. BTW those LINKS will give you some background.

[Cincinatus' Wife]

Good LINKS to Chavez's systematic takeover