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Hugo Chávez and Venezuela

The secrecy over the health and well-being of Venezuela's cancer-stricken President Hugo Chávez has left many thinking about the country's future.

by Moisés Naím

published by

BBC World News America

on January 10, 2013

Source: BBC World News America

Speaking to the BBC, Carnegie’s Moisés Naím discusses Venezuela’s deeply divided sentiments toward President Hugo Chávez. Whether Chávez is disliked or adored, Naím explained, the oil-exporting nation is suffering from a slew of economic challenges, including a shortage of staples such as milk and sugar; double-digit inflation; and the world’s second largest fiscal deficit. Before leaving for Cuba to receive treatment for an unspecified cancer, Chávez anointed Vice President Nicolás Maduro as his successor, and urged Venezuelans to elect Maduro should he not return, added Naím.

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