Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez has died from respiratory problems, aged 58. He had been seriously ill with cancer for over a year. There had been much speculation over whether or not he would regain his health to resume his presidential duties. Venezuelan vice-president Nicolas Maduro informed the nation on Tuesday evening, telling Venezuelans that Mr Chavez had died, "after battling a tough illness for nearly two years." Maduro speculated that Chavez's cancer was started by foul play. He said: "We have no doubt that Commandant Chavez was attacked with this illness. We don't have a single doubt. The established enemies of our land specifically tried to harm the health of our leader."

Hugo Chavez was a highly popular leader in his country who continually championed the causes and rights of the poor. He redirected significant sums from the country's considerable oil revenues into social welfare programmes. He became famous for his fiery speeches, especially those attacking the USA. He made several controversial attacks on then president George W. Bush, whom he labelled a devil. Mr Maduro led a call for Venezuelans to celebrate Chavez, saying: "We're going to grow, we're going to get past this. Have a lot of courage. Stay strong, be strong. Let his name rise up. Let's praise Hugo Chavez." He added: "Those who die for life, can't be called dead."