Following an unsuccessful two-month nationwide strike intended to force his resignation, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has announced his intention to arrest the leaders of the strike and try them as terrorists and saboteurs. Carlos Ortega, the leader of a labor federation, went into hiding following the announcement and arrest of another opposition leader, Carlos Fernandez. Chavez's actions defied international criticism and analysts fear he is taking a harder line against his opposition.
See "Chavez Says Leaders of Strike Should Be Tried as Saboteurs", David Gonzalez, The New York Times, February 23, 2003