Pribek

Q: What is better than a talk show?

A: A talk show marathon!

Q: What is better than a talk show marathon?

Hugo doing a marathon of his talk show “Alo Presidente”!!! From Rueters…

Venezuela’s garrulous President Hugo Chavez on Thursday began a marathon four-day edition of his trademark television show to mark 10 years since the influential and widely watched program first hit the airwaves.

Chavez is a tireless talker who uses frequent television appearances to make policy announcements, berate opponents and even sing during rambling speeches often delivered in the florid vernacular of working class Venezuelans.

Well, it’s like they say…if you don’t like what’s on, change the channel to another pro-Chavez, propaganda program on another network controlled by the Venezuelan Government.

Hugo…you don’t even have to say anything anymore, just show the picture.

We haven’t had a Hugo for a while. Chavez’ “New Socialism” referendum was rejected by voters last December but that hasn’t slowed his reform efforts. No, Chavez has simply been making his proposed measures law by decree.

Since December, by decree, Chavez has…

Established civilian militia groups modeled on the Cuban system.

Given himself the power to designate regional authorities who will have jurisdiction over elected officials.

Established laws that allow his regime to expropriate goods from privately owned businesses, increasing government control over the food supply. Those who do not comply will be subject to fines, closure, and/or up to 10 years in prison.

Taken steps to conglomerate all branches of the military into a “single armed force”.

Established a blacklist of opposition members who will not be allowed to run for any public office.

Yesterday, after police used tear gas to break up a citizen protest of these and other decrees, Hugo offered this gem…

“This is a democracy. They call me a tyrant — tyrants govern without laws. We’re making laws, and all those laws are for the benefit of the country,”