Venezuela's ruling party is attempting to forge a single pro-government party. Opponents say the push is intended to consolidate more power in the hands of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez.
RENEE MONTAGNE, host: As Cuba contemplates its political future, Venezuela appears to be taking a page from Cuba's past. President Hugo Chavez's ruling party has taken the first step towards creating a single, pro-government party, reminiscent of the one Castro created in Cuba in the 1960s.</s>RENEE MONTAGNE, host: The new party would merge Chavez's political movement and 23 coalition partners to form a new, left-wing unity party under Chavez' control. Chavez says the changes are meant to hasten the pace of his socialist revolution.</s>RENEE MONTAGNE, host: He was re-elected to a new six-year term earlier this month. Opposition leaders have labeled the move a power grab.