US: On January 10, the decision should be "free, fair and transparent"

The United States said on Tuesday that the issue of what should happen on Thursday if President Hugo Chávez fails to appear to take an oath for his new mandate is something that the Venezuelans themselves should solve. But she stressed that such a decision should take into account "all" the sectors and avoid the use of violence.

"It is an issue that Venezuelans must decide in a way that includes all voices in discussion," said Nuland, who insisted again that for the moment, Washington is only observing the situation, reported DPA.

Of course, she added, such decision should be taken in a "free, fair and transparent way that ensures equal political conditions in Venezuela." "We are concerned that all voices are heard," she said.

In this sense, she also stressed that all discussions "should happen peacefully and without violence from either side."

For now, she said, the US Embassy to Caracas has not issued any warning ahead of the demonstration convened by the Venezuelan Government on Thursday in support of Chávez in Caracas. She said Washington continues to monitor the situation.

Nuland said the United States has no other information than what has been disclosed publicly about Chávez's health. "We wish him a quick recovery," she said.