The world of politics

In just over a week’s time, the world has seen two major political outcomes, both of which were unexpected to say the least. Spread across two continents, this new development in both the countries is a pleasant surprise for the majority world opinion.

In Venezuela, the infallible Hugo Chavez ultimately had his defeat at the polls. Not only him, but many across the world were certain that Chavez’s plan are going to be reality in Venezuela. If Chavez respects the referendum then it is certain that he would be president only till the end of his second six year term in 2013. His dreams to rule Venezuela for an indefinite term came to a shattering end. So did his policies to turn Venezuela into a socialistic heaven. Though with just 1.4% of vote, the citizens of Venezuela did tell him loud and clear that they still consider the plural constitution of the country paramount to any person.

The next pleasant surprise came in yesterday from Russia. In an unexpected move, Russian president Putin announced his support for Dmitry Medvedev as the next president. Buoyed by the comprehensive victory of Putin’s party in the recent parliamentary election, it was certain that whomever he chooses will be the next president. The surprise in his choice is that he has chosen a pro-business leader over the other candidates, who were from KGB and security agencies. Among all of them, Medvedev, a law graduate and current Chairman of Gazprom would be most acceptable to the western world. Medvedev would still be someone through which Putin can maintain his hold over Kremlin, but this would have been the case with any of his successor. Atleast, with Medvedev, we can be sure of Russia’s economic progress, which will also augur well for the world in large. Though, he was at the forefront of the Russia’s gas supply controversy with Ukraine on the New Year eve of 2006, he has largely presented himself as the votary of economic liberalization and foreign investment.

Collectively, these two political developments are good news going into holiday season. (Yeah, I do believe in capitalism)