Discussing Fascism and Other Ailments: A Dialogue with Luis Britto Garcia
Chat with Luis Britto Garcia, a Notable Venezuelan Intellectual
In a raw and open conversation, Luis Britto Garcia, a renowned writer and columnist, discusses contemporary fascism, corruption within the Chavista movement, and his thoughts on the approaching Presidential elections in Venezuela.
Fascism: A Contemporary Phenomenon
In his recent article, Luis Britto Garcia dissects the nature of fascism, explaining how it feeds on societal crises and serves as a seductive alternative to capitalism in crisis. Fascism presents itself as a magical solution while amplifying oppression and exacerbating inequality.
Key characteristics of fascism, according to the Venezuelan intellectual, include heavy financial backing by big capital, the establishment of political structures such as the Corporate State, an elitist leadership, a devout nature, denial of class struggle, prolific use of violence, racism, and misogyny. Fascism is also known for its plagiaristic tendencies and intolerance towards avant-garde and critical thinkers.
The existence of fascism in Venezuela
Luis Britto Garcia highlights the street-level manifestations of fascism that surfaced during the 2014 and 2017 guarimbas and the brief period of pro-Guaido mobilization in 2019. However, he notes that fascism is currently less prevalent in the streets of Caracas, which he attributes to the 2017 Constitutional Assembly elections serving as a cultural deterrent.
The Column: "Caiga quien caiga"
Luis Britto Garcia's article, "Caiga quien caiga," was a scathing critique of corruption within the Chavista movement. The column brought light to the infiltration of some sectors of the party by actors who advocated for capitalist practices and undermined the principles of Chavismo.
Corruption - a deep-rooted issue
Britto Garcia emphasizes that while many Venezuelans, including those affiliated with the PSUV, are honest, it is crucial to identify the sources of corruption. He expresses concern about the susceptibility of some PSUV members to the "adventures" of corrupt individuals, and the potential consequences of disregarding anti-corruption measures.
The Road to the Presidential Elections
With the Presidential elections nearing, Britto Garcia offers his insights into the current electoral landscape. He acknowledges the opposition's fragmentation and the challenge of unifying behind a single candidate with mass appeal. Meanwhile, the PSUV remains the most consolidated political force in Venezuela, despite facing challenges such as corruption scandals and deferred labor reforms.
[Enrichment Data]While the exact election date has been a point of contention, it is believed that elections are likely to take place in July 2023[1]. The opposition faces challenges such as fragmentation, past boycotts, and selecting a strong, unified candidate. On the other hand, the PSUV faces challenges such as addressing internal dynamics, economic and social pressures, and international and domestic pressures.
In addition, Venezuela will hold National Assembly, governor, and regional legislative council elections on May 25, 2025[1]. These elections will offer insights into the current political climate and the strength of both the PSUV and the opposition ahead of any potential presidential contest.
[References]1. BBC News. (n.d.). Venezuela crisis: Key dates. Retrieved March 21, 2023, from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-268560012. Feldman, F. (2022, August 5). Confusion over next Venezuela elections continues with no signs of resolution. Insight Crime. Retrieved March 21, 2023, from https://www.insightcrime.org/news/americas/venezuela-presidential-elections-confusion/3. González, M., & Sánchez, G. (2023, March 8). Venezuela: The Search for a New Leader Continues. The Latin America Herald Tribune. Retrieved March 21, 2023, from https://www.laht.com/opinion/venezuela-the-search-for-a-new-leader-continues/5669954. The Dialogue. (2023, March 13). Bolton Resumes Brazil's Venezuela Sanctions: 5 Questions Answered. Retrieved March 21, 2023, from https://thedialogue.com/content/world/bolton-resumes-brazils-venezuela-sanctions-5-questions-answered5. Zaina, L. (2022, December 1). Why Are Venezuela's Opposition Protests Feeling Like Deja Vu? Americas Quarterly. Retrieved March 21, 2023, from https://www.americasquarterly.org/content/why-are-venezuelas-opposition-protests-feeling-like-deja-vu
- Luis Britto Garcia's writing reveals that he considers fascism a contemporary phenomenon, seen in the exaggeration of inequality and oppression as a seductive alternative to failing capitalism.
- The characteristics of fascism, as defined by Britto Garcia, include heavy financial backing by big capital, establishment of political structures, an elitist leadership, denial of class struggle, prolific use of violence, racism, misogyny, plagiarism, and intolerance towards avant-garde and critical thinkers.
- In his critique, Britto Garcia suggests that corruption within the Chavista movement, such as infiltration by actors pushing capitalist practices and disregarding anti-corruption measures, poses a significant challenge to the principles of Chavismo.
- The upcoming Presidential elections in Venezuela, according to Britto Garcia, face challenges such as opposition fragmentation and the need for a unified, mass-appealing candidate, while the PSUV remains the most consolidated political force, dealing with internal dynamics, economic pressures, and external pressures.
- Crime and justice news, along with policy and legislation, are essential to understanding the political landscape in Venezuela, particularly as it relates to corruption, fascism, and the approaching Presidential elections.
