Chavez seeks victory in crucial elections

PRESIDENT Hugo Chavez sought to hold on to his dominance in state and municipal elections yesterday, facing an opposition aiming to win back power in key states and cities.

Chavez has said the vote — held one year after he suffered his first electoral defeat — could decide “the future of the revolution, the future of socialism and also the future of Hugo Chavez”.

Early turnout was high as Venezuelans formed long lines to cast ballots for governors, mayors and other local officials.