President Hugo Chávez may be known for his rhetoric, but at the same time he often makes good on his statements. He rails against imperialism and increasingly pushes the country’s political institutions, as well as its society, towards socialism.
A Reuters article chronicles some of Chávez’s recent moves in the country’s economy. The government has nationalized or expropriated major companies in a wide variety of sectors, ranging from oil to agriculture to telecommunications. During the past two weeks the Venezuelan government has deepened its involvement in the banking industry, which already faces strict limits on its lending practices.
Given this evidence, what should one make of Chávez’s declarations that he will remain in power for the next decade and more? If the economic changes described by Reuters are any indication, this is a sign that he will do what it takes to make this possibility a reality.