Chávez carries out acts of government with electronic signature from Havana

Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez, in Cuba for a medical treatment, has used his electronic signature to appoint an acting Vice-President in lieu of Vice-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs Nicolás Maduro. Maduro flew on Friday to Lima, in his capacity as Foreign Minister, to attend the Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Union of South American Nations (Unasur).

Through a decree dated November 28, Chávez designated Minister of Electric Power Héctor Navarro to act in the stead of Maduro as Vice-President for two days Friday and Saturday, Reuters quoted. In this way, the Venezuelan leader showed that he continues in the saddle.

According to the state-run Cuban media, Chávez landed in Havana early in the morning of November 28.

The president began using the electronic signature during his convalescence in Havana last year. This has enabled him to approve funds, sign decrees and perform all his presidential functions, even abroad.