VENEZUELA: The Organisation of American States (OAS), which has led mediation efforts to resolve the Venezuelan political crisis, yesterday backed President Hugo Chavez's handling of the conflict, providing crucial international support for the beleaguered President.
The OAS resolution "categorically rejected" violent efforts to unseat Mr Chavez, and dismissed any proposals which sidestepped the Venezuelan constitution.
Venezuelan opposition groups reluctantly accepted the verdict but refused to cancel plans for a massive demonstration tomorrow amid fears that angry crowds will try to reach the presidential palace and repeat the chaos which provoked a failed coup in April.
Venezuela's armed forces yesterday expressed their support for Mr Chavez, warning opposition activists that, if necessary, they would intervene to stifle street violence. "Opposition activities have overstepped the boundaries of democratic norms," said army chief Gen Julio Garcia Montoya, "This is an attack on the very survival of the state."
Dissident military officers continued their protest in a public square in Caracas, calling on colleagues to join them, a plea which has so far fallen on deaf ears.
Meanwhile, opposition groups continued to blockade key access points to the capital city and fought isolated street battles with Chavez supporters. Police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse rival crowds, with no serious injuries reported.
Mr Ali Rodriguez, director of oil giant PDVSA, hardened his stance before striking oil executives, insisting there could be "no negotiation whatsoever" while the "economic sabotage" continued. Venezuela is exporting less than a third of its normal output amid a growing shortage of oil-related products.
Mr Chavez has announced the "worst was over" but even if the strike is lifted the economic consequences will be felt well into next year.