Chavez criticizes human rights court over ruling

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez criticized the Inter-American Court of Human Rights on Saturday after it ruled in favor of an opposition politician who is seeking to run for president.The Costa Rica-based court said in its ruling released Friday that Leopoldo Lopez should be allowed to run for office despite a decision by Venezuelas top anti-corruption official that had barred him from being a candidate due to a corruption investigation.Chavez said the court is part of an international system that protects the corrupt and obeys the mandate of the (U.S.) imperial power and the bourgeoisie.What value can that court have? Chavez said. For me, its worthless.Chavez didnt respond specifically to the courts conclusions in its decision. Its not up to me to comment on the legal details of that issue, he said, adding that other Venezuelan institutions would respond to the ruling.He said the courts decision reflected the desperation of the bourgeoisie seeking to make itself a victim, searching for a candidate whoever it is. Chavez has drawn key support from the poor since he was first elected in 1998, and has sought to portray his opponents as representing the interests of the wealthy.A Lopez candidacy could lead to a significant shift in the field of opposition candidates as contenders begin campaigning for a primary vote in February designed to pick a unity candidate to challenge Chavez. The presidential election will be held in October 2012.