Chavez Frias accepts CNE president's decision not run for second term

by Patrick J. O'Donoghue
Speaking at the re-launching of Petroleos de Venezuela (PDVSA) subsidiary Pequiven, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez Frias has praised National Elections Council (CNE) president, Jorge Rodriguez.

Rodriguez announced on Friday that he would not be standing for re-appointment.

* "He (Rodriguez) seems to me to be tremendously honest, brave and courageous ... an integral Venezuelan ... he has been subject to public ridicule and perverse attacks ... they never did that to the Supreme Electoral Council (CSE) when it was run by drunks."

Rodriguez himself states that the opposition cannot now use him as an excuse for not taking part in December's presidential elections.

Under his leadership, Rodriguez says the CNE has eliminated many vices inherent in the Venezuela's electoral system and criticizes the opposition for failing to rise to the occasion. His withdrawal, Rodriguez states, marks the end of a stormy period in Venezuelan history.

The opposition is over the moon about Rodriguez' decision, even though some are trying to keep it low key, saying the retirement of one person will not change things.

Opposition Shadow CNE, Sumate wants a meeting with the international team of experts (Capel) that studied Venezuela's electoral system for nine months, coming up with a mostly positive report.

President Chavez Frias recalls that when he was in the opposition there was no chance of demanding conditions to participate in elections ... "the opposition are the ones placing traps ... I think that the only way to stop them from shrieking is to hand them the CNE."

It is highly possible that Rodriguez will be offered a government post as President Chavez Frias reshuffles his cabinet for the challenge of the presidential elections.