"The government used the oil boom that started in 2004 to disempower society and enhance state control over production and the market, while borrowing massively in international markets." Somehow the name of Chavez is missing from the article as is the process he put in motion that has reached its fulfillment in the Madero gang.



Chavez used the oil boom to try to inherit the mantle of Castro. He created a top-heavy army, e.g., why are there so many generals. His gang is involved with the drug trade and allocation of state funds to the inner circle. However, it is always convenient to blame the US, even though Chavez was elected in a relatively free vote.



The problem was, and is, the Venezuelan people. "Magic realism" won't change anything. Nor, for that matter, will Hauseman's fantasy of re-empowering citizens. No gang just disbands; they have to be overcome. Like it or not, a military coup, led by a few generals who might even care about their country or perhaps by junior officers, will prove to be the solution to the Madero gang.