Report from CM in Venezuela

Venezuela
Dramatic Situation. The Visitor, Fr. Antonio González, wrote to tell us that Venezuela is going through a difficult situation, that it is suffering from a strike that has already lasted a month, without hope for a quick solution due to the contrary positions of the government and the opposition. The former hopes to remain in power by breaking the oil tankers strike (whose effects on the world market are already being felt since Venezuela is the 5th largest exporter of petroleum) and forcing its continuity, at least until August 2003 (at the mid-point of its constitutional period) when it could convoke a revoking referendum. The opposition wants the President’s resignation and early elections. The effects of this situation — which is becoming unsustainable — on the people and among the poorest give little reason for hope. There is a continual shortage of basic products. We all hope that Venezuela can find a quick, just, and peaceful solution.