Chávez says he will no longer be a "runaway horse"

President Hugo Chávez said Friday afternoon that unfortunately he will no longer be a "runaway horse," because of his health problems.

Concerning his health, during a telephone conversation with state-run television network Venezolana de Television (VTV), Chávez said, "I have to accept it. I confess to the country that unfortunately I will no longer be the runaway horse you used to see around. Now, I am on a diet, work eight hours a day, and ask God to give me the strength of the buffalo rather than that of the horse."

He added that he constantly asks the Creator "to allow me to finish the mission given to me."

Chávez explained that this week he has "been very confined, at work, but following strictly the instructions of doctors after radiation therapy."

The Venezuelan president added that he has to overcome the usual discomfort resulting from radiation therapy.

Chávez said he will continue to recover and lead again his reelection campaign.

As regard the presidential vote to be held next October 7, Chávez said the "battle is not between a candidate and another, or between two parties (...). This battle is between two models: the capitalism of the bourgeoisie and our project, namely, a national, liberating revolution.