Venezuelans vote in post-Chavez presidential poll April 14, 2013 - 16:53 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Venezuelans are voting Sunday, April 14 in a key presidential election that will test the socialist legacy of late President Hugo Chavez, RIA Novosti reported. Chavez’s protégé, acting President Nicolas Maduro is facing off against opposition candidate Henrique Capriles. In his election campaign, Maduro has pledged to push forward Chavez's "21st century socialism,” which has brought popular health, education and food programs to the poor. Maduro’s challenger Capriles has said Venezuelans are tired of divisive "Chavista" politics and vowed to bring change to the nation of 28 million people. The latest opinion polls show that Maduro has a convincing lead over his opposition rival. Chavez, who ruled Venezuela for 14 years, died on March 5 at the age of 58 after a two-year-long fight with cancer. He named Maduro as his successor before undergoing the latest surgery in December.   Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads.   Partner news |  Latest news Pasadena to host Armenian Genocide commemoration event  The Pasadena Armenian Coalition will host its community-wide Armenian Genocide Commemorative Event.Armenia: Opposition activist transferred to Investigative Committee Activist Samvel Vardanyan has been accused of insulting the lawmaker Hakob Aslanyan from the ruling Civil Contract party.Former Pashinyan envoy urges end to Genocide speculation Marukyan has urged authorities in Armenia stop discussions about verifying the names of 1.5 million victims.Azerbaijan, Jordan sign deal on defense cooperation Azerbaijan and Jordan have signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of defense, according to an official statement. |
