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October 7, 2008 1:28:25 AM CDT

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Chavez Proposal Clears Way for Lifelong Presidency

Posted Aug 16, 07 3:06 AM CDT in World 

(Newser) – Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has made a power grab toward a president-for-life position, packaging a proposal granting him unlimited terms with a measure to cap the workday at six hours. The constitutional amendment would extend terms from six to seven years and remove the two-term limit that would otherwise force Chavez to step down in 2012.

The revisions would also grant Chavez increased power over local governments and would give the federal government greater control over private company assets. The National Assembly is expected to approve the proposals within months. The plan would then be voted on in a national referendum. Chavez pushed through a new constitution in 1999.

Source BBC

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A general view of the Venezuela's National Assembly is seen as Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez delivers a speech at the National Assembly in Caracas, Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007. Chavez presented his...   (Associated Press)
Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez smiles prior to delivering a speech to the National Assembly in Caracas, Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007. Chavez was presenting his blueprint for sweeping constitutional changes...   (Associated Press)
Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez greets prior to deliver a speech at the National Assembly in Caracas, Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007. Chavez presented his blueprint for sweeping constitutional changes expected...   (Associated Press)
Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez salutes prior to deliver a speech at the National Assembly in Caracas, Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007. Chavez presented his blueprint for sweeping constitutional changes...   (Associated Press)
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez displays a copy of the Constitution during a speech at the National Assembly in Caracas, Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007. Chavez presented his blueprint for sweeping constitutional...   (Associated Press)
A supporter of Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez holds a poster with a picture of Chavez on it prior to the president's arrival at the National Congress where Chavez will take part in an extraordinary...   (Associated Press)
Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez speaks during a meeting with Uruguay's President Tabare Vazquez, unseen, at the Presidential Residence in Montevideo, Uruguay, Aug. 8, 2007. (AP Photo/Matilde Campodonico)   (Associated Press)
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