The spread of what is called "Bolivarian thought" - which blurs the distinction between Chavez's Fifth Republic Movement party and the government - worries many. Before the coup, Chavez proposed allowing circle committees to inspect schools and fire teachers at will. "Bolivarian thought" is being taught at "Bolivarian schools."
But whose thought? Bolivar's big concern was winning independence from Spain and uniting South America. Recent additions come from Chavez, whom Garcia Ponce describes as "the interpreter of the hopes and desires of the people." ***