Sounds like things are getting ripe for another coup, far bloodier than the last one.

Chavez is purging the armed forces.

But Chavez has removed so many generals and admirals since the coup that he has been obliged to appoint some lower-ranking colonels in their place, causing resentment among senior officers.

“Meritocracy is being replaced by unconditional commitment and loyalty to the president,” said Vice Adm. Rafael Huizi Clavier, president of the Institutional Military Front, a group of retired senior officers critical of Chavez. “The fundamental values of the armed forces are being lost and the military is becoming a praetorian guard.”