Hugo Chavez Responds to Public Outrage Over Shutdown of Television Station RCTV

It was Venezuela's oldest private television station and, despite being enjoyed by many, President Hugo Chavez opted not to renew their license.

The sudden shut-down of RCTV (Radio Caracas Television), the lone station that aligned itself with opposition to Chavez, was met with mixed emotions across the country. While thousands would bang pots and pan in protest, others would ignite fireworks in celebration.

Taking its place in the homes of many will be a new public service station that will no doubt be more favorable to Chavez.

As the hours turned to minutes, staff and supporters in the studio expressed their emotions through tears, applause, hugs and shouts of "freedom!" Just before the final national anthem, and while many bowed their heads in prayer, a presenter announced: "Long live Venezuela! We will return soon."

"We are living an injustice," said Eyla Adrian to AM New York, a 35-year-old presenter, her eyes welling with tears.."

RCTV's top executive, Marcel Granier, said Chavez's decision "marks a turn toward totalitarianism" and "a flagrant abuse of power by Chavez

"He's losing more than he thinks he's gaining. He's losing international recognition and he's losing the respect of his people," Granier added.

A moment later, the blackened screen was replaced with the insignia with the new state-funded channel-TVES.

Beginning with an orchestrated version of the national anthem, programming at the new station is said to include additional live performances as well as a state-financed film about independence hero Simon Bolivar (1783 - 1830).

Briceida Rivas, 28, said the new public service channel is cause for celebration, calling RCTV's programs "bad for children."

Chavez has defended his decision by explaining that the move was done only in the interest of democracy. The "coup-mongering" network will now be for public use. Expectedly, opponents claim the shutdown was an attack of free speech and a set-back for true democracy.