Chavez Takes Over Highways, Airports

Key transport links now in federal hands, weakening anti-Chavez governors
By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff
Posted Mar 13, 2009 5:06 AM CDT
Chavez Takes Over Highways, Airports
Hugo Chavez greets supporters as he arrives to inaugurate a new bridge linking Caracas with its main international airport and seaport.   (AP Photo/Gregorio Marrero)

Venezuela's national assembly has voted to transfer control of the country's ports, highways and airports to President Hugo Chavez, reports the BBC. Critics say switching control of transport links from state to federal level is unconstitutional and will further weaken mayors and governors opposed to Chavez. The president's backers say the move will help guarantee public services to all Venezuelans.
(More Venezuela stories.)

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