Wow! He discovered the Mediterranean, as me good old mom would say. But he does have some interesting things to say about the forces that brought Chavez to power and especially the lack of results for the poor. Politcal parties, note he does not limit it to Chavez (one has to wonder why), have created a false properity and a notion of entitlement.

During the economic boom years, ushered in by a sustained increase in oil prices, the parties dispensed favors, subsidies and alms. In the end, they taught the people about rights rather than obligations, thus establishing the myth that Venezuela is a rich country, and that the sole duty of a good government is to distribute its wealth evenly. President Chávez has been buying and selling against this idea, continuing to practice the kind of neopopulism that will reach its limit only when the country receives what economists call an “external shock.”

Interesting, but methinks too little, too late.

Disclaimer: I know nothing about the man's politics, homicidal tendencies, or the history of Venezuela, except in general terms. I offer commentary purely on the linked material and intend offense to no one except Mssr. Chavez.. Those who are more intellectually gifted, historically versed, or privy to other information are welcome to expand, contradict or enlighten. I will not be offended but rather enriched by the same.