A strike launched some two months ago in a bid to drive out Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez will be partially lifted, however the crucial backbone of the strike - - the oil sector - - will remain on strike, an opposition spokesman said Saturday.
Jesus Torrealba said the movement, "will enter a new phase" with businesses, industries, schools and shopping centers resuming activity over the course of next week, AFP reported.
Torrealba, executive secretary of the opposition coordinating committee, said it would continue the fight in the key oil industry, demanding that 5,000 oil workers sacked by the government be allowed to return to work.
The fight, Torrealba added, is not only over these workers but "also will be focused on derailing the government's ambitions to use PDVSA to serve its political ends."
Opposition members have been demanding Chavez step down as soon as possible. He has rejected the idea and said they can seek a recall referendum in August.
Far from easing up on pressure on Chavez, Torrealba insisted that starting Monday, the opposition "will sponsor with greater drive" demonstrations with one goal - - pushing Chavez out of office." (Albawaba.com)
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
