The Venezuelan press has been buzzing with the resignation of Henri Falcón from Chávez’s socialist party (United Socialist Party of Venezuela or PSUV). International media outlets have also picked up on the news due to its significance: Henri Falcón was, until recently, a genuine chavista and, as Daniel points out, one of the few with enough political strength to tell Chávez to shove it. However, what I find peculiar is that the best quote from the open letter he sent to the leader hasn’t been mentioned by any of the commentators covering this event:
“In my view, this organization is currently far from achieving the objectives for which it was created. It has been undermined by bureaucracy, lack of discussion, clientelism, groupthink, and a misunderstood concept of loyalty.”
Translation:
“In my opinion, this organization (PSUV) is very far from the ends for which it was created. It has been eroded by bureaucracy, a lack of debate, clientelism, group mentality, and a misinterpretation of loyalty.”
I must say, Henri Falcón has provided us with one of the most succinct and precise definitions of chavismo. Other chavistas are beginning to connect with Falcón. Are there troubles ahead for the coupster?