Venezuela's opposition marches to demand attorney general's resignation

Hundreds of government foes marched Monday to demand the resignation of Venezuela's attorney general, accusing him of attempting to stifle opposition to President Hugo Chavez.

Roughly 300 demonstrators criticized Attorney General Isaias Rodriguez for bringing what they say are trumped up charges against opposition leaders while ignoring crimes allegedly committed by the president's allies.

Prosecutors have brought treason charges against several ex-military officers and civilians, accusing them of subversive acts and rebellion.

"The attorney general is just another puppet of this regime. He persecutes those who fight against this autocratic regime," said one of the marchers, Yasmin Colmenares.

Chavez denies that he holds sway over state prosecutors but has said those charged must face justice.

Monday's protest, which was organized by the First Justice opposition party, ended peacefully after demonstrators marched several blocks from a downtown plaza to the attorney general's office, AP reported. V.A.