< Posted on 12/28/2005 3:22:14 PM PST by billorites
One of the presents most likely to be found under the Christmas tree this year in Venezuela is a mini-version of the left-wing President Hugo Chavez. The little Chavez - or Chavecito - has the president's trademark red army beret and his military boots, and even its own political catchphrase.
In a country that is split into those for and against the president, the toy is causing a stir.
The dolls have turned many a toy shop into a goldmine.
"In just a few weeks, we sold 1,500 of these dolls. That's about 20 dolls a day," says Douglas Bustamante, one of the store owners in the capital, Caracas.
He says that the 60cm-tall toys are selling faster than he can re-stock them.
The mini-version of President Chavez also has its own catchphrase: "I arrived here to do all humanly possible to help all the Venezuelan people."
The little Chavez is being snapped up by old and young alike, not just by the president's supporters. Some people opposed to him see the funny side.
Mr Chavez has said nothing so far on the issue.
But maybe the Chavecito will find its way into the presidential palace in time for Christmas.
< Do they buy them to use as voodoo dolls?
with kung-fu grip?
Collect 'em, trade 'em, impress your friends!
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You'd be surprised whatI can do with a coconut, a cigar, some rum and a red candle....
George W. Bush Doll!
Ann Coulter Doll!
Hooray!
Snap 'em up, they could be worth money after we depose him! DU'ers will want them for their shrines, and they'll pay big bucks for them on eBay!
I would like to understand better the logic of those who buy this doll even though they don't like Chavez.
Sounds like a Stalinist, Maoist cult of personality...
(It's Cheney chewing on Edwards. This was made right after the Vice Presidential Debate.)
Do they have any larger sizes in these? One about 3 ft tall would make a great lawn jockey.
Target practice.
Does it come complete with its own set of armed thugs?
Make mine a Bobble-Head, please.
LOL, Marie Antoinette!
"I would like to understand better the logic of those who buy this doll even though they don't like Chavez."
It sounds like an attempt at protecting themselves from persecution to me.
Now, now; don't lose your head.
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