Hugo Chavez
Chávez in Moscow to Sign $2bn Arms Deal
Venezuela to buy new missile defence systems and diesel-powered submarines to defend against the US
Ch?vez Arrives in Moscow for Arms Spending Spree
Venezuela's president Hugo Chavez is on his sixth visit to Moscow to buy weapons, which he says the country needs to defend itself from the US
Former First Lady to Stand Against Chávez
Venezuela's president now faces new opponent as ex-wife runs for mayor and drags divorce back into limelight
The Long Slide
After almost a decade in power and his first failure at the polls, can it be that Venezuela's Hugo Chávez is losing his touch? Rory Carroll reports
Chavez Sends 10 Battalions to Colombian Border After Killing of Farc Commander
Venezuelan reaction to incursion into Ecuador plunges region into crisis
Scoop of the Month: When Naomi Met Chávez
Tim Dowling: The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chávez, is a bottomless pit of contradictions. Which master of forensic questioning could unravel such an enigma? Paxman? He's gone fishing. Get me Naomi Campbell!
An Education Long Overdue For Hugo Chavez
Article on the recent political setbacks of the President of Venezuela, Hugo Chavez.
Chávez Turns Back Hands of Time By Half an Hour
President Hugo Chávez does not usually do things by halves but yesterday was an exception: he put Venezuela's clocks back half an hour
Shock and Celebrations As Voters Stall the Chávez Revolution
President suffers narrow defeat in referendum on changing the constitution
Powerful Leader Has Ability to Bounce Back
Hugo Chávez has suffered a stinging defeat, but it will pause rather than stop his self-styled socialist revolution
Chávez Loses Bid to Rule Until 2050
Venezuelan voters narrowly reject president's constitutional amendment to let him run for election indefinitely
Chávez on to a Winner With Referendum Gamble
Venezuelans back leader's attempt to extend powersˇ Exit polls predict victory but turnout is low
Chávez's Referendum Gamble Hangs in Balance
Venezuelan leader trying to extend powersˇ Inflation and food shortages erode support
Chavez Wants Lifelong Power. All Rivals Are Traitors. What's Undemocratic About That?
Rory Carroll: Neither man would appreciate the comparison, but there is one striking similarity between George Bush and Hugo Chavez. Both are radical Presidents who see the world as a struggle between good and evil, with no middle way
Captured Videos Revive Hopes for Hostages
Tape seized after arrest of Colombia rebelsˇ Evidence follows end of Chávez mediation effort
Chávez Forced to Battle for Long-term Future
Reforms would remove time limit on leader's termˇ Student-led opposition has unexpected poll lead
Colombia Halts Chávez Negotiations Over Hostages
Colombia has abruptly ended a mediation effort by the Venezuelan president, Hugo Chávez, to win the release of hostages held by left-wing guerrillas
Hostage Hopes Fade As Colombia Sacks Negotiator Chávez
Colombia's government has abruptly halted Hugo Chávez's mediation efforts to release hostages held by rebels in Colombia's jungle, dashing the best chance in years to win their freedom
It Was Murder: the Chávez Version of Liberator's Death
President turns sleuth to challenge historians' view of Simón Bolívar's demise
Students March Against Chávez
Tens of thousands of students are expected to march through Caracas and other cities today in protest at Hugo Chávez's move to amend Venezuela's constitution, despite violence which has injured at least eight students.
Campbell Meets Chávez
The meeting of the president of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and British model Naomi Campbell late on Tuesday takes Hugo Chávez's courting of the celebrity elites to new highs.
Chavez Plans Leisure Revolution
President Hugo Chavez has proposed slashing Venezuela's working day to six hours to turn its socialist revolution into a paradise of leisure - with one exception.
Nobel Economist Endorses Chávez Regional Bank Plan
The Nobel prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz has endorsed an ambitious plan by Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, to create a pan-regional bank for Latin America. Professor Stiglitz, a Washington insider and former World Bank chief economist, said the Bank of the South would benefit the region and give a welcome shakeup to western lending institutions.
Ecuador Poll Backs the Chávez Route to Reform
President hails victory as early results come inˇ Voters select members of body to alter constitution
Government By Tv: Chávez Sets 8-hour Record
Aló Presidente show is longest yet display of politics and showmanship.
Chávez Pours Millions More Into Pioneering Music Scheme
President Hugo Chávez has thrown his weight behind a scheme which brings classical music into Venezuela's slums, following international acclaim for the Simón Bolívar Youth Orchestra.
Chávez Flies to Colombia for Talks to Free Hostages Held By Guerrillas
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, made a bold attempt yesterday to broker a deal between Colombia and leftwing guerrillas to free hostages languishing in jungle redoubts.
Aló Presidente - Episode 291: When Chávez Reclaimed Las Malvinas
Venezuela's president derides European cynicism in seven-hour TV broadcast Aló Presidente.
Robin Hood Ellis Declares Solidarity with Chavez
Tired of opinions about Macon's Mayor C. Jack Ellis from outside the Central Georgia area? The following is a letter drafted to the Macon Telegraph following C.Jack Hakim Mansour Ellis' recent declaration of solidarity to Hugo Chavez of Venezuela. I work in Macon, GA...this is a local issue for me...let me know your opinion.
The Holocaust Denier, the Radical Socialist, and Their Axis of Unity
Chávez's economic alliance with Iran is part of his wider policy of snubbing the US.
Chávez to Expel Foreign Dissenters
President Hugo Chávez has announced that foreigners who visit Venezuela and criticise his government will be escorted to the airport and expelled.
Criticise Me and You're Out, Chávez Warns Foreigners
Venezuelan leader threatens deportations - Government proposes end to presidential term limit
Chávez Hints at Nuclear Future for Venezuela
President Hugo Chávez yesterday hinted that Venezuela could try to become a nuclear power, during a visit to Russia apparently timed to antagonize the White House.
Insecure, Narcissistic and Petulant - How Washington Sees Chávez
According to a profile by the US air force, the rivalry between Washington and Caracas is less about politics and more about the Venezuelan president's desire to feel good about himself
Flares and Medallions Live Again on Chavez's Socialist Tv
Public service channel dominated by US reruns - Station meant to replace opposition broadcaster
Chávez Forced to Deny Dictatorship Accusation
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, last night denied turning his country into a dictatorship and said democracy was blossoming despite an "imperialist conspiracy" to overthrow his government.
Police Stop Protest As Anti-chávez Tv Channel Taken Off Air
Water cannon and tear gas used against opposition - Venezuelan government accused of censorship
Chávez Silences Critical Tv Station - and Robs the People of Their Soaps
Protests have taken place in Venezuela as Radio Caracas Television has lost its license to broadcast after 53 years on air. By Rory Carroll.
Chávez Warns Banks and Steel Firm May Be Nationalised
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, said he might nationalise the country's banks and a major steel producer in the next stage of his socialist revolution.
Chávez Threatens to Nationalise Banks
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, today opened up possible new fronts in his nationalisation programme by threatening to take over the country's private banks and its biggest steel firm.
Chavez Causes a Froth By Calling Time on Holiday Booze
Ban aims to cut Easter violence and road deaths - Air of Prohibition as bars serve drinks in coffee cups
Chávez Paid for Bolivia Gas Nationalisation
Venezuela hired US firm to fight energy companies - Move shows president's influence across region
Chavez Baits Bush With 'gringo Go Home' Calls
President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela has upstaged George Bush's Latin America tour in a show of political theatre which this weekend saw insults hurled across the River Plate.
Chávez Makes a Monkey of Bush
In the lexicon of political insults it will take some beating. Already known for his somewhat colourful use of language Venezuelan president Hugo Chávez has probably written himself into the history books for a new sidewipe at his US counterpart George Bush.
Chavez Wins Powers to Rule By Decree But Critics Cry 'heil, Hugo'
Venezuela's congress extended the authority of the president, Hugo Chavez, yesterday when it passed a measure allowing him to rule by decree.
Chavez Set to Be Granted Sweeping New Powers
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chavez, was today poised to gain extended powers allowing him to make sweeping changes as he seeks to transform Venezuelan society.
Chvez Tells Us Ambassador to Stop Meddling
The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chávez, is threatening to expel the outspoken US ambassador William Brownfield for what he claimed was meddling in the country's affairs.
Welcome to Chávez-land, the New Latin Mecca for the Sandalistas
Tourists flock not to the beaches, but the slums to see '21st-century socialism'.
Chavez and Ortega Sworn in As Presidents
Chavez and Ortega are sworn in as presidents and for a day of two inaugurations separated by 1,314 miles, a late flight and an ideological time warp, it was apt for one of the new presidents to quote Albert Einstein's theory of relativity.
Chávez Puts Shares Into a Spin With Vow to Nationalise Utilities
President sets out road to socialist republic - Speech wipes a third from value of phone company
Chavez Lays Ground for Steps to Socialism
Hugo Chavez, Venezuela's president, has promoted loyalists to key positions and said he will shut down a pro-opposition television station on the eve of his third term in office.
Chávez Triumph Brings Emollient Words From Us
The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chávez, has vowed to push ahead with his self-styled socialist revolution after being re-elected by a landslide.
A Third Term Likely for Chávez, Says Exit Poll
Venezuelan poor turn out in force on polling day - Early prediction gives president big lead.
Charisma and Chequebook Mean the Chavez Show Will Go on
Hundreds of young men and women in red T-shirts surge towards the doors, clamouring to be allowed in, but the theatre in central Caracas is already full and the show is about to begin.
Charisma and Petro-dollars Mean the Show Will Go on for Chávez
Opponents loathe him, but leftwing leader is 20 points ahead of his main rival.
Challenger Dares to Rattle Chavez in Run-up to Election
It was a Shakira concert, a night for hip-shaking salsa in the heart of the Venezuelan capital, but instead the audience erupted into a chant of defiance against one of the most powerful men in Latin America, Hugo Chavez.
All Aboard As Chávez Takes Off on a Four-hour Flight of Rhetoric
The Venezuelan president is three weeks away from an election and has assembled cabinet ministers, aides and journalists at the presidential palace, Miraflores, for a rhetorical journey.
Chávez's Revolutionary Intent Stalls Amid Bumbling Bureaucracy
Billed as justice for landless peasants, policy is yet to be put into practice.
The New-look Chávez: Lover, People's Poet, Electioneer
Meet Hugo Chávez, Venezuelan president, socialist revolutionary, globetrotting firebrand, Washington nemesis and now, in election campaign mode, a lover.
US Sweats Over Chávez Decision at Un
It will be either elation or disappointment today for Hugo Chávez, Venezuela's flamboyant president, as he finds out whether his country has won a seat on the UN security council.
Chávez Bid for Security Council Seat Falters
ˇ Guatemala pulls ahead in three rounds of voting ˇ Millions spent on lobbying may have been in vain
Chávez Sends Oil to Boost Ortega's Election Bid in Nicaragua
Venezuela was due to ship 350,000 barrels of oil to Nicaragua yesterday in an effort to boost the election campaign of Daniel Ortega, who hopes to lead the Sandinistas back to power next month.
Chávez in Final Push for Un Security Council Seat
Venezuela's campaign for a seat on the UN security council is reaching a climax in the face of fierce resistance from the Bush administration.
Chávez Boosts Chomsky Sales
If he ever tires of running Venezuela, Hugo Chávez would make an outstanding book club president, judging by his impact on Noam Chomsky's book sales.
Chávez Attacks 'devil' Bush in Un Speech
ˇ Venezuelan accuses US of double standards on terror ˇ Bolivian president condemns war on drugs
Chavez Visits Castro in Hospital
Three weeks ago, he was all but written off, sidelined from public view with intestinal problems leaving a very large Castro-shaped hole at the heart of Cuban government.
US Accused of Bid to Oust Chávez With Secret Funds
ˇ Millions of dollars given to opposition, claim critics ˇ Venezuelan groups' details hidden from list
Chavez Says China Deal 'great Wall' Against Us
ˇ Venezuela to supply a million barrels of oil a day ˇ Beijing scrambling to feed energy-hungry economy
The Chávez Effect
Like other leftwing parties fighting tight election races in Latin America this year, the new-look Sandinistas have a problem they cannot control. It is called Hugo Chávez. By Simon Tisdall
Bush Bans Arms Sales to Chavez
The US finally reacted to goading by the Venezuelan leader, Hugo Chavez, by slapping a full arms ban on the country last night, claiming it had failed to cooperate in the fight against terrorism.
London Tories Boycott the Ken and Hugo Show
Ken Livingstone today hosted the Venzuelan president, Hugo Chávez, for lunch at City Hall, a gesture which was boycotted by the Conservatives on the London assembly.
Revolution in the Camden Air As Chávez - With Amigo Ken - Gets a Hero's Welcome
ˇ Show of solidarity for Venezuelan president ˇ Three-hour speech wins over 800-strong crowd
Morales and Chavez Rebuked at Eu Summit
EU leaders today rounded on Bolivia and Venezuela for challenging free market policies at a summit of European and Latin American leaders in Vienna.
Network of 'hugo's Friends' Links Politics From Mexico to Brazil
The Chávez effect and the reshaping of a continent.
How Morales Took on the Oil Giants - and Won His People Back
Stand-off after Chávez-inspired leader sends troops into gas fields.
Chávez Seeks to Peg Oil at $50 a Barrel
ˇ Price could see Venezuela producing for 200 years ˇ Country's reserves may exceed Saudi Arabia's
Chávez Vows to Resist Us 'inoculation Strategy'
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, said he would resist an "imperialist attack" after Washington announced it would pursue an "inoculation strategy" against his government by creating a united front against its policies.
World Briefing
Love him or hate him, Mr Chávez is impossible to ignore. Despite loose talk of coups and assassination, there seems to be no stopping El Presidente - and no end to the baiting of Mr Bush.
HUGO CHAVEZ & THE SLUG: Pat Robertson's Call for Assassination
Christian fundamentalist Pat Robertson recently called for the assassination of Venezeula's democratically elected president, Hugo Chavez. The White House refused to denounce that criminal advocacy. Not good enough, Mr. President, for the self-proclaimed champion of world democracy.
Chávez Taunts Us With Oil Offer
Venezuelan president hits back at assassination remarks with offer of cheap petroleum for poor Americans.
Bush is Plotting to Kill Me, Says Chavez
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chavez, accused George Bush of plotting to assassinate him yesterday, and warned that all Venezuelan oil exports to the US would stop in the event of his death.
Hugo Chavez Superstar
John Vidal: Even Brazil's bourgeoisie love the World Social Forum. Even as the presidents, billionaires and film stars were jetting home from the World Economic Forum in Davos, another very different group was saying its goodbyes in Brazil.
Venezuela Split As Chávez Faces Vote on Presidency
Hugo Chávez's peculiar one-man revolution will be put to the test on Sunday. After nearly six years in power, the Venezuelan president is fighting to avoid the thumbs-down in a referendum with implications reaching far beyond Caracas. The vote on whether to recall - sack - Mr...
Famous Names Speak Up for Chavez in Venezuela Poll
Writers, politicians and film-makers from more than a dozen countries have offered their support to the Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, who faces a referendum this month on his future. The group have signed a manifesto saying that, if they were Venezuelan, they would vote for Chavez in...
Chavez Film Puts Staff at Risk, Says Amnesty
Recriminations after documentary on Venezuelan coup attempt is dropped from a Vancouver festival.
Venezuela tries to put Chavez to the test
Salsa music blares through the narrow streets of Gramoven, a shanty town in western Caracas. The houses are made of breeze blocks and corrugated iron but the occupants have painted them in bright cheerful colours.
Chavez puppet sparks protests
A puppet show at the US ambassador's residence in Caracas has strained Venezuela's already tense relationship with Washington.
Anti-Chavez leader under house arrest
The Caracas central court has put a leading opponent of President Hugo Chavez under house arrest on charges of civil rebellion and criminal instigation.
Anti-Chavez protesters murdered
Three dissident Venezuelan military officers and a young woman have been found dead after apparently being kidnapped, tortured and killed, for what some people fear may have been political motives.
Chavez Tries to Steady the Ship As Strike Peters Out
Businesses, factories and restaurants closed for weeks by the general strike in Venezuela have been reopening in a tacit admission by the opposition that the attempt to force President Hugo Chavez from power has failed, at least for the time being. Yesterday President Chavez imposed...
Jimmy Carter's Chavez Solution
Former President Jimmy Carter has proposed as a solution to the crisis in Venezuela a binding referendum on Hugo Chavez's presidency and a shortened presidential term.
Miami Djs Recycled Castro to Fool Chavez
Two Miami radio talk-show hosts have used a tape recording of Fidel Castro to fool Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, into believing he was having a telephone chat with the Cuban leader.
Chavez Acts to Ease Food Crisis
Hugo Chavez, the embattled Venezuelan president, today stepped up efforts to deliver petrol and food to overcome shortages from an oil strike that has paralysed the country. Mr Chavez, who has already resorted to using troops to move idle tankers and take over oil state terminals and...
Venezuelan President Defies Calls for General Election
Angered by Hugo Chavez's unwavering resolve to hang onto Venezuela's presidency, the opposition has announced an escalation of street protests in a quest to topple him as a general strike entered its third week today. Mr Chavez, who has twice won elections but now stands accused of...
Watching rockets, awaiting the bang
Rockets soared through the late night air and there were sounds of muffled explosions as thousands of supporters of President Hugo Chavez gathered outside the headquarters of the national oil company in the La Campina district of Caracas.
Venezuelans Support Embattled President
The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, failed yesterday to retake the rebellious oil tanker which has become the focus of a strike aimed at pushing him from power. Troops ordered to seize the Pilin Leon, anchored off the coast, returned to shore empty-handed because the crew said they...
Tension Rises As Chavez Referendum is Scrapped
Opposition hopes for an early referendum on whether President Hugo Chavez should resign have been dashed by Venezuela's supreme court. The court's decision will heighten tension in an already polarised political climate in advance of a general strike planned for Monday. Fears are mounting...
Street Protests Press Chavez to Face Venezuelan Electors
Violent street clashes in Caracas are putting the president of Venezuela, Hugo Chavez, under increasing pressure to submit his rule to a referendum next month. At least 16 people were hurt in the latest round of street battles as the president's leftwing supporters fought with opposition...
The Venezuelan great survivor rides his luck
It is the mark of a man confident in his position that Hugo Chavez, president of Venezuela, was visiting Oxford yesterday rather than at home in Caracas, dealing with the latest threat to his presidency.
Riots As Caracas Court Rejects Coup Trial
Violent clashes have followed a Venezuelan supreme court's decision on Thursday over-ruling a magistrate's order to try four senior officers implicated in April's short-lived coup against President Hugo Chavez. At least 15 people were shot and wounded in the unrest in Caracas. Five were...
Opec chief warned Chavez about coup
The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, had advance warning of last month's coup attempt against him from the secretary general of Opec, Ali Rodriguez, allowing him to prepare an extraordinary plan which saved both his government and his life, an investigation has revealed.
American navy 'helped Venezuelan coup'
The United States had been considering a coup to overthrow the elected Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, since last June, a former US intelligence officer claimed yesterday.
Report From Caracas: The Coup
On April 11, President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela was ousted from office by the army. Two days later he was back in power. But who was behind the plot to overthrow this controversial friend of Castro? And did the US play a part in it? Duncan Campbell reports from Caracas.
Simon Bolivar
Venezuela's remarkable coup survivor, Hugo Chavez, regards him as a role model and national hero. Read our guide to the best Bolivar sites.
After the coup, Venezuelan president ponders mystery of American plane
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said yesterday he would investigate the mysterious presence of a US plane at the island prison where he was briefly detained during last week's abortive military coup.
Egg on face of Labour minister who called deposed leader 'ranting demagogue'
The Labour minister who likened Venezuela's president, Hugo Chavez, to Mussolini after his fall from power on Friday welcomed his return to office yesterday.
Chavez Rises From Very Peculiar Coup
Hugo Chavez is once again Venezuela's president after a week of turmoil concluded by the failure of a military coup against him.
Revolutionary gives way to business leader
Out Hugo Chavez: In Pedro Carmona. A former paratrooper who led a failed military coup in 1992 and plotted another one in jail nine months later, Mr Chavez finally...
Events that lit fuse
Feb 4 1992: Lt Col Hugo Chavez leads failed coup against President Carlos Andres Perez. Imprisoned but freed in 1994
Ousted Chavez Detained By Army
The ousted Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, was being held in an army barracks in Caracas last night after an opposition rally ended in a bloodbath and military chiefs forced him to resign. He caved in to the pressure early yesterday only hours after pro-Chavez snipers had killed at...
Venezuelan Oil Exports Revived After Coup
Dissident executives of Venezuela's state oil firm are to resume normal exports, following the forced resignation of president Hugo Chavez. The PDVSA oil chiefs have cancelled their six-week "go slow" protest against management changes planned by Chavez. The action had disrupted oil...
Venezuelan President Resigns Afer Coup
The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, was forced to resign today after a military coup followed civilian demonstrations that ended in government troops firing on protesters. Mr Chavez gave his resignation to three generals at the presidential palace in Caracas, according to Colonel Julio...
Venezuela's president now faces new opponent as ex-wife runs for mayor and drags divorce back into limelight
The Long Slide
After almost a decade in power and his first failure at the polls, can it be that Venezuela's Hugo Chávez is losing his touch? Rory Carroll reports
Chavez Sends 10 Battalions to Colombian Border After Killing of Farc Commander
Venezuelan reaction to incursion into Ecuador plunges region into crisis
Scoop of the Month: When Naomi Met Chávez
Tim Dowling: The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chávez, is a bottomless pit of contradictions. Which master of forensic questioning could unravel such an enigma? Paxman? He's gone fishing. Get me Naomi Campbell!
An Education Long Overdue For Hugo Chavez
Article on the recent political setbacks of the President of Venezuela, Hugo Chavez.
Chávez Turns Back Hands of Time By Half an Hour
President Hugo Chávez does not usually do things by halves but yesterday was an exception: he put Venezuela's clocks back half an hour
Shock and Celebrations As Voters Stall the Chávez Revolution
President suffers narrow defeat in referendum on changing the constitution
Powerful Leader Has Ability to Bounce Back
Hugo Chávez has suffered a stinging defeat, but it will pause rather than stop his self-styled socialist revolution
Chávez Loses Bid to Rule Until 2050
Venezuelan voters narrowly reject president's constitutional amendment to let him run for election indefinitely
Chávez on to a Winner With Referendum Gamble
Venezuelans back leader's attempt to extend powersˇ Exit polls predict victory but turnout is low
Chávez's Referendum Gamble Hangs in Balance
Venezuelan leader trying to extend powersˇ Inflation and food shortages erode support
Chavez Wants Lifelong Power. All Rivals Are Traitors. What's Undemocratic About That?
Rory Carroll: Neither man would appreciate the comparison, but there is one striking similarity between George Bush and Hugo Chavez. Both are radical Presidents who see the world as a struggle between good and evil, with no middle way
Captured Videos Revive Hopes for Hostages
Tape seized after arrest of Colombia rebelsˇ Evidence follows end of Chávez mediation effort
Chávez Forced to Battle for Long-term Future
Reforms would remove time limit on leader's termˇ Student-led opposition has unexpected poll lead
Colombia Halts Chávez Negotiations Over Hostages
Colombia has abruptly ended a mediation effort by the Venezuelan president, Hugo Chávez, to win the release of hostages held by left-wing guerrillas
Hostage Hopes Fade As Colombia Sacks Negotiator Chávez
Colombia's government has abruptly halted Hugo Chávez's mediation efforts to release hostages held by rebels in Colombia's jungle, dashing the best chance in years to win their freedom
It Was Murder: the Chávez Version of Liberator's Death
President turns sleuth to challenge historians' view of Simón Bolívar's demise
Students March Against Chávez
Tens of thousands of students are expected to march through Caracas and other cities today in protest at Hugo Chávez's move to amend Venezuela's constitution, despite violence which has injured at least eight students.
Campbell Meets Chávez
The meeting of the president of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and British model Naomi Campbell late on Tuesday takes Hugo Chávez's courting of the celebrity elites to new highs.
Chavez Plans Leisure Revolution
President Hugo Chavez has proposed slashing Venezuela's working day to six hours to turn its socialist revolution into a paradise of leisure - with one exception.
Nobel Economist Endorses Chávez Regional Bank Plan
The Nobel prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz has endorsed an ambitious plan by Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, to create a pan-regional bank for Latin America. Professor Stiglitz, a Washington insider and former World Bank chief economist, said the Bank of the South would benefit the region and give a welcome shakeup to western lending institutions.
Ecuador Poll Backs the Chávez Route to Reform
President hails victory as early results come inˇ Voters select members of body to alter constitution
Government By Tv: Chávez Sets 8-hour Record
Aló Presidente show is longest yet display of politics and showmanship.
Chávez Pours Millions More Into Pioneering Music Scheme
President Hugo Chávez has thrown his weight behind a scheme which brings classical music into Venezuela's slums, following international acclaim for the Simón Bolívar Youth Orchestra.
Chávez Flies to Colombia for Talks to Free Hostages Held By Guerrillas
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, made a bold attempt yesterday to broker a deal between Colombia and leftwing guerrillas to free hostages languishing in jungle redoubts.
Aló Presidente - Episode 291: When Chávez Reclaimed Las Malvinas
Venezuela's president derides European cynicism in seven-hour TV broadcast Aló Presidente.
Robin Hood Ellis Declares Solidarity with Chavez
Tired of opinions about Macon's Mayor C. Jack Ellis from outside the Central Georgia area? The following is a letter drafted to the Macon Telegraph following C.Jack Hakim Mansour Ellis' recent declaration of solidarity to Hugo Chavez of Venezuela. I work in Macon, GA...this is a local issue for me...let me know your opinion.
The Holocaust Denier, the Radical Socialist, and Their Axis of Unity
Chávez's economic alliance with Iran is part of his wider policy of snubbing the US.
Chávez to Expel Foreign Dissenters
President Hugo Chávez has announced that foreigners who visit Venezuela and criticise his government will be escorted to the airport and expelled.
Criticise Me and You're Out, Chávez Warns Foreigners
Venezuelan leader threatens deportations - Government proposes end to presidential term limit
Chávez Hints at Nuclear Future for Venezuela
President Hugo Chávez yesterday hinted that Venezuela could try to become a nuclear power, during a visit to Russia apparently timed to antagonize the White House.
Insecure, Narcissistic and Petulant - How Washington Sees Chávez
According to a profile by the US air force, the rivalry between Washington and Caracas is less about politics and more about the Venezuelan president's desire to feel good about himself
Flares and Medallions Live Again on Chavez's Socialist Tv
Public service channel dominated by US reruns - Station meant to replace opposition broadcaster
Chávez Forced to Deny Dictatorship Accusation
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, last night denied turning his country into a dictatorship and said democracy was blossoming despite an "imperialist conspiracy" to overthrow his government.
Police Stop Protest As Anti-chávez Tv Channel Taken Off Air
Water cannon and tear gas used against opposition - Venezuelan government accused of censorship
Chávez Silences Critical Tv Station - and Robs the People of Their Soaps
Protests have taken place in Venezuela as Radio Caracas Television has lost its license to broadcast after 53 years on air. By Rory Carroll.
Chávez Warns Banks and Steel Firm May Be Nationalised
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, said he might nationalise the country's banks and a major steel producer in the next stage of his socialist revolution.
Chávez Threatens to Nationalise Banks
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, today opened up possible new fronts in his nationalisation programme by threatening to take over the country's private banks and its biggest steel firm.
Chavez Causes a Froth By Calling Time on Holiday Booze
Ban aims to cut Easter violence and road deaths - Air of Prohibition as bars serve drinks in coffee cups
Chávez Paid for Bolivia Gas Nationalisation
Venezuela hired US firm to fight energy companies - Move shows president's influence across region
Chavez Baits Bush With 'gringo Go Home' Calls
President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela has upstaged George Bush's Latin America tour in a show of political theatre which this weekend saw insults hurled across the River Plate.
Chávez Makes a Monkey of Bush
In the lexicon of political insults it will take some beating. Already known for his somewhat colourful use of language Venezuelan president Hugo Chávez has probably written himself into the history books for a new sidewipe at his US counterpart George Bush.
Chavez Wins Powers to Rule By Decree But Critics Cry 'heil, Hugo'
Venezuela's congress extended the authority of the president, Hugo Chavez, yesterday when it passed a measure allowing him to rule by decree.
Chavez Set to Be Granted Sweeping New Powers
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chavez, was today poised to gain extended powers allowing him to make sweeping changes as he seeks to transform Venezuelan society.
Chvez Tells Us Ambassador to Stop Meddling
The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chávez, is threatening to expel the outspoken US ambassador William Brownfield for what he claimed was meddling in the country's affairs.
Welcome to Chávez-land, the New Latin Mecca for the Sandalistas
Tourists flock not to the beaches, but the slums to see '21st-century socialism'.
Chavez and Ortega Sworn in As Presidents
Chavez and Ortega are sworn in as presidents and for a day of two inaugurations separated by 1,314 miles, a late flight and an ideological time warp, it was apt for one of the new presidents to quote Albert Einstein's theory of relativity.
Chávez Puts Shares Into a Spin With Vow to Nationalise Utilities
President sets out road to socialist republic - Speech wipes a third from value of phone company
Chavez Lays Ground for Steps to Socialism
Hugo Chavez, Venezuela's president, has promoted loyalists to key positions and said he will shut down a pro-opposition television station on the eve of his third term in office.
Chávez Triumph Brings Emollient Words From Us
The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chávez, has vowed to push ahead with his self-styled socialist revolution after being re-elected by a landslide.
A Third Term Likely for Chávez, Says Exit Poll
Venezuelan poor turn out in force on polling day - Early prediction gives president big lead.
Charisma and Chequebook Mean the Chavez Show Will Go on
Hundreds of young men and women in red T-shirts surge towards the doors, clamouring to be allowed in, but the theatre in central Caracas is already full and the show is about to begin.
Charisma and Petro-dollars Mean the Show Will Go on for Chávez
Opponents loathe him, but leftwing leader is 20 points ahead of his main rival.
Challenger Dares to Rattle Chavez in Run-up to Election
It was a Shakira concert, a night for hip-shaking salsa in the heart of the Venezuelan capital, but instead the audience erupted into a chant of defiance against one of the most powerful men in Latin America, Hugo Chavez.
All Aboard As Chávez Takes Off on a Four-hour Flight of Rhetoric
The Venezuelan president is three weeks away from an election and has assembled cabinet ministers, aides and journalists at the presidential palace, Miraflores, for a rhetorical journey.
Chávez's Revolutionary Intent Stalls Amid Bumbling Bureaucracy
Billed as justice for landless peasants, policy is yet to be put into practice.
The New-look Chávez: Lover, People's Poet, Electioneer
Meet Hugo Chávez, Venezuelan president, socialist revolutionary, globetrotting firebrand, Washington nemesis and now, in election campaign mode, a lover.
US Sweats Over Chávez Decision at Un
It will be either elation or disappointment today for Hugo Chávez, Venezuela's flamboyant president, as he finds out whether his country has won a seat on the UN security council.
Chávez Bid for Security Council Seat Falters
ˇ Guatemala pulls ahead in three rounds of voting ˇ Millions spent on lobbying may have been in vain
Chávez Sends Oil to Boost Ortega's Election Bid in Nicaragua
Venezuela was due to ship 350,000 barrels of oil to Nicaragua yesterday in an effort to boost the election campaign of Daniel Ortega, who hopes to lead the Sandinistas back to power next month.
Chávez in Final Push for Un Security Council Seat
Venezuela's campaign for a seat on the UN security council is reaching a climax in the face of fierce resistance from the Bush administration.
Chávez Boosts Chomsky Sales
If he ever tires of running Venezuela, Hugo Chávez would make an outstanding book club president, judging by his impact on Noam Chomsky's book sales.
Chávez Attacks 'devil' Bush in Un Speech
ˇ Venezuelan accuses US of double standards on terror ˇ Bolivian president condemns war on drugs
Chavez Visits Castro in Hospital
Three weeks ago, he was all but written off, sidelined from public view with intestinal problems leaving a very large Castro-shaped hole at the heart of Cuban government.
US Accused of Bid to Oust Chávez With Secret Funds
ˇ Millions of dollars given to opposition, claim critics ˇ Venezuelan groups' details hidden from list
Chavez Says China Deal 'great Wall' Against Us
ˇ Venezuela to supply a million barrels of oil a day ˇ Beijing scrambling to feed energy-hungry economy
The Chávez Effect
Like other leftwing parties fighting tight election races in Latin America this year, the new-look Sandinistas have a problem they cannot control. It is called Hugo Chávez. By Simon Tisdall
Bush Bans Arms Sales to Chavez
The US finally reacted to goading by the Venezuelan leader, Hugo Chavez, by slapping a full arms ban on the country last night, claiming it had failed to cooperate in the fight against terrorism.
London Tories Boycott the Ken and Hugo Show
Ken Livingstone today hosted the Venzuelan president, Hugo Chávez, for lunch at City Hall, a gesture which was boycotted by the Conservatives on the London assembly.
Revolution in the Camden Air As Chávez - With Amigo Ken - Gets a Hero's Welcome
ˇ Show of solidarity for Venezuelan president ˇ Three-hour speech wins over 800-strong crowd
Morales and Chavez Rebuked at Eu Summit
EU leaders today rounded on Bolivia and Venezuela for challenging free market policies at a summit of European and Latin American leaders in Vienna.
Network of 'hugo's Friends' Links Politics From Mexico to Brazil
The Chávez effect and the reshaping of a continent.
How Morales Took on the Oil Giants - and Won His People Back
Stand-off after Chávez-inspired leader sends troops into gas fields.
Chávez Seeks to Peg Oil at $50 a Barrel
ˇ Price could see Venezuela producing for 200 years ˇ Country's reserves may exceed Saudi Arabia's
Chávez Vows to Resist Us 'inoculation Strategy'
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chávez, said he would resist an "imperialist attack" after Washington announced it would pursue an "inoculation strategy" against his government by creating a united front against its policies.
World Briefing
Love him or hate him, Mr Chávez is impossible to ignore. Despite loose talk of coups and assassination, there seems to be no stopping El Presidente - and no end to the baiting of Mr Bush.
HUGO CHAVEZ & THE SLUG: Pat Robertson's Call for Assassination
Christian fundamentalist Pat Robertson recently called for the assassination of Venezeula's democratically elected president, Hugo Chavez. The White House refused to denounce that criminal advocacy. Not good enough, Mr. President, for the self-proclaimed champion of world democracy.
Chávez Taunts Us With Oil Offer
Venezuelan president hits back at assassination remarks with offer of cheap petroleum for poor Americans.
Bush is Plotting to Kill Me, Says Chavez
Venezuela's president, Hugo Chavez, accused George Bush of plotting to assassinate him yesterday, and warned that all Venezuelan oil exports to the US would stop in the event of his death.
Hugo Chavez Superstar
John Vidal: Even Brazil's bourgeoisie love the World Social Forum. Even as the presidents, billionaires and film stars were jetting home from the World Economic Forum in Davos, another very different group was saying its goodbyes in Brazil.
Venezuela Split As Chávez Faces Vote on Presidency
Hugo Chávez's peculiar one-man revolution will be put to the test on Sunday. After nearly six years in power, the Venezuelan president is fighting to avoid the thumbs-down in a referendum with implications reaching far beyond Caracas. The vote on whether to recall - sack - Mr...
Famous Names Speak Up for Chavez in Venezuela Poll
Writers, politicians and film-makers from more than a dozen countries have offered their support to the Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, who faces a referendum this month on his future. The group have signed a manifesto saying that, if they were Venezuelan, they would vote for Chavez in...
Chavez Film Puts Staff at Risk, Says Amnesty
Recriminations after documentary on Venezuelan coup attempt is dropped from a Vancouver festival.
Venezuela tries to put Chavez to the test
Salsa music blares through the narrow streets of Gramoven, a shanty town in western Caracas. The houses are made of breeze blocks and corrugated iron but the occupants have painted them in bright cheerful colours.
Chavez puppet sparks protests
A puppet show at the US ambassador's residence in Caracas has strained Venezuela's already tense relationship with Washington.
Anti-Chavez leader under house arrest
The Caracas central court has put a leading opponent of President Hugo Chavez under house arrest on charges of civil rebellion and criminal instigation.
Anti-Chavez protesters murdered
Three dissident Venezuelan military officers and a young woman have been found dead after apparently being kidnapped, tortured and killed, for what some people fear may have been political motives.
Chavez Tries to Steady the Ship As Strike Peters Out
Businesses, factories and restaurants closed for weeks by the general strike in Venezuela have been reopening in a tacit admission by the opposition that the attempt to force President Hugo Chavez from power has failed, at least for the time being. Yesterday President Chavez imposed...
Jimmy Carter's Chavez Solution
Former President Jimmy Carter has proposed as a solution to the crisis in Venezuela a binding referendum on Hugo Chavez's presidency and a shortened presidential term.
Miami Djs Recycled Castro to Fool Chavez
Two Miami radio talk-show hosts have used a tape recording of Fidel Castro to fool Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, into believing he was having a telephone chat with the Cuban leader.
Chavez Acts to Ease Food Crisis
Hugo Chavez, the embattled Venezuelan president, today stepped up efforts to deliver petrol and food to overcome shortages from an oil strike that has paralysed the country. Mr Chavez, who has already resorted to using troops to move idle tankers and take over oil state terminals and...
Venezuelan President Defies Calls for General Election
Angered by Hugo Chavez's unwavering resolve to hang onto Venezuela's presidency, the opposition has announced an escalation of street protests in a quest to topple him as a general strike entered its third week today. Mr Chavez, who has twice won elections but now stands accused of...
Watching rockets, awaiting the bang
Rockets soared through the late night air and there were sounds of muffled explosions as thousands of supporters of President Hugo Chavez gathered outside the headquarters of the national oil company in the La Campina district of Caracas.
Venezuelans Support Embattled President
The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, failed yesterday to retake the rebellious oil tanker which has become the focus of a strike aimed at pushing him from power. Troops ordered to seize the Pilin Leon, anchored off the coast, returned to shore empty-handed because the crew said they...
Tension Rises As Chavez Referendum is Scrapped
Opposition hopes for an early referendum on whether President Hugo Chavez should resign have been dashed by Venezuela's supreme court. The court's decision will heighten tension in an already polarised political climate in advance of a general strike planned for Monday. Fears are mounting...
Street Protests Press Chavez to Face Venezuelan Electors
Violent street clashes in Caracas are putting the president of Venezuela, Hugo Chavez, under increasing pressure to submit his rule to a referendum next month. At least 16 people were hurt in the latest round of street battles as the president's leftwing supporters fought with opposition...
The Venezuelan great survivor rides his luck
It is the mark of a man confident in his position that Hugo Chavez, president of Venezuela, was visiting Oxford yesterday rather than at home in Caracas, dealing with the latest threat to his presidency.
Riots As Caracas Court Rejects Coup Trial
Violent clashes have followed a Venezuelan supreme court's decision on Thursday over-ruling a magistrate's order to try four senior officers implicated in April's short-lived coup against President Hugo Chavez. At least 15 people were shot and wounded in the unrest in Caracas. Five were...
Opec chief warned Chavez about coup
The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, had advance warning of last month's coup attempt against him from the secretary general of Opec, Ali Rodriguez, allowing him to prepare an extraordinary plan which saved both his government and his life, an investigation has revealed.
American navy 'helped Venezuelan coup'
The United States had been considering a coup to overthrow the elected Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, since last June, a former US intelligence officer claimed yesterday.
Report From Caracas: The Coup
On April 11, President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela was ousted from office by the army. Two days later he was back in power. But who was behind the plot to overthrow this controversial friend of Castro? And did the US play a part in it? Duncan Campbell reports from Caracas.
Simon Bolivar
Venezuela's remarkable coup survivor, Hugo Chavez, regards him as a role model and national hero. Read our guide to the best Bolivar sites.
After the coup, Venezuelan president ponders mystery of American plane
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said yesterday he would investigate the mysterious presence of a US plane at the island prison where he was briefly detained during last week's abortive military coup.
Egg on face of Labour minister who called deposed leader 'ranting demagogue'
The Labour minister who likened Venezuela's president, Hugo Chavez, to Mussolini after his fall from power on Friday welcomed his return to office yesterday.
Chavez Rises From Very Peculiar Coup
Hugo Chavez is once again Venezuela's president after a week of turmoil concluded by the failure of a military coup against him.
Revolutionary gives way to business leader
Out Hugo Chavez: In Pedro Carmona. A former paratrooper who led a failed military coup in 1992 and plotted another one in jail nine months later, Mr Chavez finally...
Events that lit fuse
Feb 4 1992: Lt Col Hugo Chavez leads failed coup against President Carlos Andres Perez. Imprisoned but freed in 1994
Ousted Chavez Detained By Army
The ousted Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, was being held in an army barracks in Caracas last night after an opposition rally ended in a bloodbath and military chiefs forced him to resign. He caved in to the pressure early yesterday only hours after pro-Chavez snipers had killed at...
Venezuelan Oil Exports Revived After Coup
Dissident executives of Venezuela's state oil firm are to resume normal exports, following the forced resignation of president Hugo Chavez. The PDVSA oil chiefs have cancelled their six-week "go slow" protest against management changes planned by Chavez. The action had disrupted oil...
Venezuelan President Resigns Afer Coup
The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, was forced to resign today after a military coup followed civilian demonstrations that ended in government troops firing on protesters. Mr Chavez gave his resignation to three generals at the presidential palace in Caracas, according to Colonel Julio...