Those supporting the Benevolent Dictator philosophy would do well to study the ascent to absolute power of Benito Mussolini.

First, organize and head a party that promises restoration of power to the people and an end to bureaucratic paralysis.

Second, use the existing democratic process to elevate the party and its head man to power.

Third, demand temporary dictatorial powers to seize control of parliamentary and other branches of the government, and site outside threats and traitors within the government as the reason.

Fourth, design and prosecute large-scale "people's projects", such as Mussolini's Land and Grain Reforms to solidify the image as the People's Leader.

Fifth, through threat or direct action, silence all press opposition and outlaw public protest.

Sixth, demand further, open-ended extension of dictatorial powers in favor of the ruling party/headman's prepared list of candidates, effectively outlawing the opposition.

Anyone who sees a difference between this approach and Chavez' is welcome to dispute it. He, at least, is showing himself to be a conscientious student of history.