Venezuelans to choose Chavez rival

Venezuelans yesterday voted in the country’s first-ever opposition presidential primary, choosing a single challenger they hope will have what it takes to defeat President Hugo Chavez after 13 years in office.

Henrique Capriles, the front-runner among five contenders, predicted a high turnout. “Today is a day for Venezuelans’ future,” he said after voting.

Opposition supporters seemed less interested in the proposals put forth by the contenders than their chances of defeating Chavez in the October election.