Politics
President Hugo Chávez said that in 2012 presidential elections will be held, and "unless God decides otherwise," he is to seek his United Socialist Party of Venezuela's nomination to run again for president of Venezuela.

Chávez vowed to devote himself "for life" to the service of the Venezuelan people. He claimed that this victory in February 15 referendum marks the beginning of the third phase of the revolution. "We have opened the doors to the future, from 2009 to 2019, to keep walking the road. This path is the road of the dignity of men, the dignity of people. This path has only one name: socialism."

Chávez also compelled public employees to "fight harder and to get better results" against personal insecurity, squandering and inefficiency."

"We must review and amend institutions pertaining to the five branches of the state. Truly renewed institutions are needed in Venezuela. These institutions must be devoted to public service. We must devote ourselves to win these battles."

Translated by Gerardo Cárdenas