VP: Chávez ordered to keep people informed as hard as the truth is

Venezuelan Vice-President Nicolás Maduro said President Hugo Chávez has ordered to keep people informed with the truth, as hard as it may be in certain circumstances. "Twenty-one days have passed since his operation –a three-week, very complex post-operative stage," he said in an exclusive interview with multi-state television network Telesur recorded in Havana.

Further, Maduro emphasized that Chávez is fully aware of the difficult post-operative process. He reiterated that since he arrived in Havana on December 29, he has been able to see and talk to Chávez twice. He added the president squeezed his hand tightly, and his face showed a gigantic strength.

He said that from the beginning they have been monitoring the operation and evolution of President Chávez, with the certainty that he will improve, as he has experienced light improvements sometimes and other times he has been in stationary condition.

He invited the supporters of President Chávez to disregard the rumors spread by right-wing people and media at the service of imperialism. "The right-wing has a miserable soul." He stressed that many right-wing leaders have voiced support for Chávez. "They (some opposition sectors) want the people's love to turn into uncontrollable anger. Some in the right-wing think this will be good for them."

Maduro informed that after spending four days in Havana, he would return to Caracas on Tuesday February 2.