Yes, that Socialist and American “pain in the You-know-where” President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela is back again by popular demand.
Yesterday, in a record breaking election in which 80% of registered voters participated, President Chavez defeated his opponent, former governor Henrique Capriles, by 900,000 votes.
Despite Chavez’s recent struggle with cancer, which has left the former soldier physically weaker, he made powerful political statements and promises to the people, proclaiming that Venezuela would:
“continue along the path of democratic and Bolivarian socialism of the 21st century.”
Although Chavez has claimed victory, many argue that he is facing a Venezuela that is evolving beyond the purview of his ” Bolivarian Revolution.”
A significant portion of the overall turnout for the election consisted of voters who supported Capriles. Initially, Chavez did not take his opponent seriously, referring to him as a “loser,” ”sycophant,” and “fascist.”
But with 45% of the votes, Capriles, many argue, was actually quite a worthy challenger. He campaigned all across Venezuela (even in the most destitute slums), stating that he was Venezuela’s future, while Chavez was the country’s past.
For now, President Chavez’s leadership will continue to be part of Venezuela’s present reality. But although he will not have to worry about a title change for another six years, Chavez might do well to reconsider his policies and heed the words of his political adversary by acknowledging that Venezuela:
Assuming his health does not hinder him, Chavez has another six years in office to try doing just that.
