Posted on 11/04/2011 10:08:10 PM PDT by quantim
CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) -- President Hugo Chavez called again for sweeping reforms of Venezuela's troubled prisons Friday, saying the country's sluggish judicial system has prompted violence by leaving inmates languishing for years without trial.
Chavez praised his newly appointed prisons minister, Iris Varela, for preparing a list of inmates who have spent long periods in prisons without going to trial and for leading negotiations with rebellious prisoners who have staged violent protests.
"The procedures must be accelerated to impart justice," said Chavez, speaking to Varela and a group of prisoners on state television.
"I congratulate you, Iris, for the tremendous job," he added. "You are like Mother Teresa of Calcutta."
Chavez has repeatedly called for reforms of the prison system during his 12 years in power, though all sides agree conditions remain grim. In 1999, shortly after taking office, Chavez announced he had a team of soldiers and civilians working on a "Dignity Plan" to clean up the prisons, which he called "among the worst and most savage in the world."
(Excerpt) Read more at hosted.ap.org ...
What iris did was pretty much let the prisoners go, so much for reform. He’s been basically a dictator for 12 years and now he wants prison reform??
“Chavez urges reform of Venezuela’s prison system”
Start by tossing his stupid Commie ass into it...
FHC
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.