GW-- You asked " How else can he remain in office" It's a good point but how much pull do the gold miners really have ? I think we overrate what Hugo thinks of them. What can they really do to him. They are way down south,small in numbers and have no impact on the nation overall at this point. If they all vote against him--so that? Am I missing something??

O.F. I believe you are correct...however unless Chavez has an agenda that includes screwing KRY\GRZ for some political purpose (cozying up to the Russians?), one would think that it certainly wouldn't hurt to say "yes" to the permit and make these protests and associated bad press go away. Also...we all know that Hugo wants the best for his people (not) so we know he wants to get them working at these mines ASAP. Don't forget...as we head into possible hyperinflationary depression...don't underestimate the importance to Hugo of controlling one of the largest gold mines on the planet. Make no mistake about it. He knows this is a strategic financial asset in terms of stabilizing his currency and economy.