R.I.P Hugo Chavez

Officials in Venezuela have called for peace and unity after President Hugo Chavez's death yesterday. Vice President Nicolas Maduro will assume the presidency in the interim, before elections will be held in 30 days.

The future of Venezuela is uncertain but whether or not you agree with Chavez's policies, he will have a lasting legacy in his beloved country. Chavez was President from 1999 until his death. During this time Chavez, following the political ideology of Bolivarianism and 'socialism of the 21st century', implemented sweeping constitutional reforms, nationalisation of several key industries, such as oil, and increased government funding of health care and education. 

Chavez had not only supporters and opposers within his country but also abroad. I personally advocate him for making a positive change in his country for the benefit of the majority of Venezuelan people. In a Western world anyone in left-wing politics is open to criticism. One of the most resonating quotes by Chavez is as follows:

Democracy is impossible in a capitalist system. Capitalism is the realm of injustice and a tyranny of the richest against the poorest. Rousseau said, 'Between the powerful and the weak all freedom is oppressed. Only the rule of law sets you free.' That's why the only way to save the world is through socialism, a democratic socialism... [Democracy is not just turning up to vote every five or four years], it's much more than that, it's a way of life, it's giving power to the people... it is not the government of the rich over the people, which is what's happening in almost all the so-called democratic Western capitalist countries.

As someone who is a true believer in democracy, I think it speaks volumes. My hope for the future of Venezuela is that democracy will prevail and the people get the representation they want.


I end this blog on a musical note, courtesy of the wonderful Arkells: