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Colombia tiff evident in marches
Associated Press
Published January 24, 2005
CARACAS, Venezuela - Supporters and opponents of President Hugo Chavez held separate marches Sunday, marking the anniversary of the end of Venezuela's last dictatorship in 1958.
But while supporters praise him for championing national sovereignty and social justice, critics say that his growing power is threatening democracy.
Chanting pro-Chavez slogans and carrying banners reading: "Colombia, Stay Out of Venezuela," thousands of government supporters danced to traditional folk music as they marched through the city. They praised Chavez for involving the masses in politics and establishing social programs to benefit the poor.
"Venezuela's democracy is an example for the world, and with Chavez as president it's more alive than ever," said Francisco Pabon, 59, who came to Caracas from southern Amazonas state to join the progovernment march dubbed "In Defense of Venezuelan Sovereignty."
A diplomatic row between Caracas and Bogota arose when Colombia's defense minister, Jorge Uribe, acknowledged Jan. 12 that Colombia paid bounty hunters to collar a wanted guerrilla in Venezuelan territory.
[Last modified January 24, 2005, 01:32:09]
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