RCTV (Radio Caracas Television), a private media station and critic of President Hugo Chavez will not have its license renewed by the government at the end of May. Oil Wars wonders what will replace RCTV, but thinks this is an opportunity to restructure how media is controlled. However, Caracas Chronicles mentions polling results that found nearly 70% of Venezuelans do not agree with this non-renewal, “making it the least-popular move of his eight-year presidency.”
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Slice it, dice it, spin it any way you want, RCTV was a mouthpiese of LOYAL opposition to ALL Venezuelan Administrations. When a xunta made any positive accomplishments at all, they also made a special effort to give fair credit and thanks when and where adn to whom it was due.
RCTV gave Hugo Chavez a honeymoon for the first years of his administration. Following that, he received basically the same treatment as all others. After the massacres of opposition members April 11-13 2002, it comes as no surprise that this media outlet would join the popular outcry against the growing tyranny.
Ans, considering the basically low self-esteem and shallowness of Chavez, it should surprise no observer that he would react vindivtively and viciously when the coast was clear.
Chavez has eradicated the historical constitution of the country, unilaterally writing one of his own likeing with help from Cuba and former Soviet Politburi types. He has appointed a slew oj judges and ministers to positions the constitution required to be elected, to preserve the delicate balance of power and respect in government.
He now has arrogated to hmself plenary powers as a dictator…and the people now will have to watch endless hours of “cadenas” reminiscient of Ty-D-Bowl commercials, in shich he will strum his banjo, pretend to be a philospher and a brave soldier, and aggrandize his program for neurotic self-justification at the cost of destroying those who feed the nation and filled its’ treasury. His theme song, as ever is ‘He who goes doen the bowl last is the King!” Watch for GIF/flash anime on You Tube soon, yo prometo!!!
Oil Wars is not a Venezuelan site. It’s run by a non-Venezuelan white-skinned British-derived westerner based in New York City. Caracas Chronicles, although I tend to agree with it, is based in Netherlands. If this is Global Voices which supposedly advances a global ‘conversation,’ wouldn’t it be better to get an authentic Venezuelan voice represented on this matter? Miguel at Devil’s Excrement and Daniel at Venezuela News & Views have some outstanding indigenous Venezuelan commentary. Why are Venezuelan voices based in Venezuela being shut out as 500,000 Venezuelans march through the streets on a matter of media silencing no less? Check them out here and here.