Venezuela's never-ending political season

That 2008 will be an interesting year in Venezuelan politics has already been established. Mayors and governors will be elected in the fall, providing a true test of the strength of opposition to President Hugo Chavez.

Last week, Chavez began his 10th year in office. His current term as president runs through early 2013.

Another interesting test is a soon-to-be-launched drive to collect signatures for a new Constitutional Assembly, an idea promoted by ex-defense minister and retired army Gen. Raul Baduel (pictured), once a Chavez confidant and now a bitter opponent.

It was Baduel who helped turn voters against Chavez's proposed constitutional amendment in December by characterizing its provision to allow Chavez unlimited reelections as a "coup d'etat." In an interview, Baduel told The Times that constitutional reform was needed to protect separation of powers.

While some in the opposition camp, including other ex-military leaders, applaud Baduel's intentions, they warn that a new constitutional assembly could be taken over by Chavez supporters. In a separate interview, Baduel told the Associated Press that he was being spied on by the Chavez government and his every movement monitored. 

-- Chris Kraul in Caracas

Photo: Associated Press