Venezuela: National leaders of the PSUV meet Alan Woods and CMR leadership

Alan opened the meeting with a speech on World Perspectives and on the contradictions of the Bolivarian revolution. He also explained the work of the international Hands Off Venezuela campaign and drew up a balance sheet of the conversation he had with president Chávez on Margarita Island. 'The president is someone who listens, and this is very important, he is a man whose views have evolved', he said. Alan went into the question of the November elections, pointing out that there is a deep malaise within the ranks of the Bolivarian movement, which can be felt in every neighbourhood and in every city. He gave several examples to illustrate the fact that this malaise is not directed against socialism, nor against the revolution, nor against Chávez, but the people are dissatisfied with many of the governors, mayors, councillors, deputies and Ministers. 'Revolution is a serious business, one cannot play with the feelings of the masses. I have studied many revolutions and I do not know of any that has lasted for 10 years,' said Alan. He reported a conversation he had had with a taxi driver who said he was a chavista, but added that in the November elections 'the people will make them pay'.