Record Poll Loosens Chávez Hold

President Hugo Chávez's allies swept most states in Venezuela's regional elections at the weekend, but his dominance was dented by the loss of important cities, including the capital, Caracas.

The results allowed both sides to claim victory, but the opposition wore broader smiles and emerged energized. "What's important is that the map of Venezuela has started to change," said opposition leader Manuel Rosales.

The opposition, a coalition of small parties, increased its power base from two to five states, including the populous and economically important Carabobo, Zulia and Miranda. It also took Caracas city hall and four of the capital's five municipalities, including Petare, the country's biggest slum. It had exploited growing discontent over crime, inflation and poor public services to win urban strongholds previously loyal to the government.

However, Chávez showed his continued popularity in South America's big oil-producing country by helping his allies win 17 of the 22 gubernatorial races, many in rural areas. His brother Adan narrowly took the governorship of Barinas.

The president said the results were a mandate for his self-styled socialist revolution. "The flame is stronger today. The path of building socialism has been endorsed and now we will focus on the task of deepening and extending our project." He said the election showed he was no dictator.

A record turnout of 65% among 16.8 million registered voters reflected both the passion and antipathy the former tank commander elicits. The capital is now likely to lead resistance to Chávez's ambition to abolish presidential term limits. He lost a referendum on the issue last year.