On Wed, 24 Aug 2005 08:40:09 -0700, dbohara wrote:

Human Rights
Watch has condemned Chavez many times for his abuse of power to suppress
freedom of speech. Lefties always seem to do this, they start out well
but then cannot handle criticism.

Venezuela is not without problems, and Chavez is far from a sweetheart.
He was, after all, involved in a 1992 coup attempt, and jailed for it.
However, it is interesting that you focus on freedom of speech. Here is
what Human Rights Watch says about Venezuela's freedom of the press
(speech):

"Venezuela has a vigorous and uninhibited media. Indeed, as part of the
often heated and acrimonious debate between supporters of the government
and its opponents, members of the media have been able to express strong
views without restriction. Private television companies have often adopted
blatantly partisan positions, airing news and debate programs extremely
hostile to the Chávez government."

Clearly, the press remains free. Although, you are correct in that their
have been attempts to curb it's freedoms.

http://hrw.org/english/docs/2005/01/13/venezu9843.htm

Tough bunch, that Human Rights Watch. You may find it interesting what
they say about this country.

http://hrw.org/english/docs/2005/01/13/usdom9853.htm

It seems the right wing Bush administration doesn't fair very well, either.