President announces creation of national rural defense force

www.vheadline.com Posted: Monday, March 10, 2003 By: Robert Rudnicki

Speaking during his weekly "Alo Presidente" radio show, President Hugo Chavez Frias has announced the creation of a national rural defense force that will help farmers to defend themselves.

The Venezuelan leader called on the National Armed Forces (FAN), the police and security forces to work together and coordinate the program and train farmers to defend themselves to avoid possible massacres.

"Together we will coordinate these forces with the aim of guaranteeing the lives of farming families and avoiding massacres."

"This revolution is peaceful, but it will not allow massacres, we have to use our weapons against terrorists and assassins ... to defend the interests of the Republic and the people."