Venezuelans of all stripes take to the streets again***But the president's opponents say Chávez has rigged the democratic rules in his favor. Under the Constitution, he cannot be forced from office in a referendum until 2004. Without a referendum, his term of office will not end until 2007. "Chávez hasn't respected the rules of the game. So we feel there should be a constitutional amendment to shorten his term," says Mr. Ocariz. With government and opposition at loggerheads, neither has much time to debate the country's declining economy or widespread poverty.
Some activists have suggested that the opposition form a new coalition party to confront the president. But according to Mr. Leon, such an alliance will be doomed: "How can you reconcile the different opposition groups behind one party? The moment they try to present their national project, they will split," he says. According to Mr. Keller, those with most to gain may be the existing parties - the only groups with nationwide networks and experience in political maneuvering.***
Human rights groups demand autonomy to investigate shootings at anti-Chavez rally *** Allies and adversaries of Chavez have spent weeks arguing who is responsible for the violence. Opposition leaders claim Chavez loyalists urged supporters to fire at unarmed marchers, who were calling for the president's resignation. Government spokesmen argue conspirators orchestrated the shootout to prompt a military uprising against the president.
"The government doesn't want the truth to come out, that's why ruling party lawmakers are stalling on the approval the proposed law," said Ramon Medina, a member of the First Justice opposition party. Tarek Saab, a pro-Chavez lawmaker, denied the ruling party is dragging its feet or standing in the way of an investigation.***