US proposes holding election "if Chávez is unable to rule"

"If he (President Hugo Chávez) fails to perform his duties, the Venezuelan Constitution provides for elections to choose a new president," said a source who asked for anonymity, AFP reported. 

"We took note of the return of President Chávez to Venezuela and we reaffirm our best wishes for his recovery," the source added.

"Long standing practices in the hemisphere provide for fair and free elections, as well as open and balanced access to the press, which is of the essence for democracy," the US official stated.

Translated by Jhean Cabrera