Thousands of students demand freedom of expression in Venezuela

Jun 6, 2007, 20:39 GMT

Caracas - Several thousand university students and professors demonstrated Wednesday in Caracas to demand freedom of expression and autonomy for universities.

Protestors from the country's main universities marched to the Venezuelan attorney general's office, and focused on the government decision not to renew the broadcasting licence of the popular Radio Caracas Television (RCTV).

Demonstrators considered the move an attack on freedom of expression. The broadcaster had been critical of the government of President Hugo Chavez.

They also claimed planned legislation on higher education would violate the universities' autonomy.

The police and military cordon around the building allowed through a small delegation with a petition.

'We ask the attorney general's office for respect for civil rights. In this fight university teachers back the students,' said Antonio Paris, the rector of the Central University of Venezuela.

Professors are worried about government plans to change university curricula and entrance requirements.

The government led by Chavez has accused students protesting since last week against the closure of the popular RCTV of being manipulated by the political opposition.