Now Chavez is accusing Obama of meddling in the referendum that could allow him to run indefinitely

By RACHEL JONES
Associated Press Writer

CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) -- President Hugo Chavez on Saturday accused Barack Obama of meddling in a referendum that could allow him to run for re-election indefinitely and ordered a crackdown on disorderly student protests against the upcoming vote.

In a speech to supporters, Chavez accused the U.S. president-elect of supporting the Venezuelan opposition and wanting to see him removed from office.

"He's said I'm an obstacle for progress in Latin America," Chavez said. "Therefore it must be removed, this obstacle, right?"

It was unclear what comments Chavez could be referring to. On Thursday, the top American official in Venezuela, Charge d'Affaires John Caulfield, said the U.S. would seek increased cooperation and "renewed dialogue" with the Chavez government under an Obama administration. Obama takes office Tuesday.

U.S.-Venezuela relations reached a low point in September when Chavez expelled the U.S. ambassador and recalled his envoy from Washington. But the socialist leader previously expressed hope for improved relations under a new administration, refraining from the confrontational language and insults he constantly hurled against President George W. Bush.


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Poor Hugo, he's being eclipsed by Obama, and he's losing his chief foil, bush. Good luck, Hugo, trying to demonize Obama.

Do we really yet?

since Bush is peacing out.

What a clown. Smartest thing he ever did was picking a fight with Bush.

especially about this: "If he doesn't obey the orders of the empire, they'll kill him," ..of course the article said he didn't offer proof..as if history weren't enough proof.

asserting that Obama is interfering in the upcoming referendum.

I was stating that I agreed with his statement.