The Venezuelan government has ordered the closure of 34 radio stations for administrative problems.
The authorities say that the radio stations in question failed to complete registrations forms by a set deadline. However, critics of the regime say that it is the government's attempt to gag the media.
Staff at the radio stations said the move was to make space for media more favourable to President Chavez. A further 200 radio stations are expected to be closed in coming weeks.
Opposition politicians have said that the current government has "turned into a mutilator of rights" because it is "scared of freedom of expression".
Reporters Without Borders said that “This massive closure of mainly opposition media is a dangerous for the future of democratic debate in Venezuela and is motivated by the government’s desire to silence dissent,".
Carlos Correa, head of Espacio Público, a free speech group, said “This is the most important curb on freedom of expression ever seen in Venezuela,"
Diosdado Cabello, head of the national regulator and public works minister, said "When we - the national government, the revolutionary government - took the decision to democratise the radio-electrical spectrum... we were speaking seriously,"
A new law proposed in the country will mean journalists publishing 'harmful' material can be prosecuted and imprisoned. Attoryney general Luisa Ortega Diaz showcased the bill in the national assembly saying that the government "must regulate freedom of expression", adding "I demand that a limit be placed on this right."
A group of Chavez supporters reportedly attacked the headquarters of opposition TV station, Globovisión, on Monday. Reports say that 35 people threatend Globovisión's employees with guns and teargas. Two people are thought to have been injured in the attack.
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