Venezuela's Chavez makes surprise return from Cuba

CARACAS (REUTERS) - Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez made a surprise return from Cuba on Monday, more than two months after surgery for cancer that threatens to end his 14-year rule of the South American Opec member.

The 58-year-old socialist leader underwent a six-hour operation in Cuba on Dec 11. He had not been seen or heard in public since then until photos were published of him on Friday.

"We have arrived back in the Venezuelan fatherland. Thanks, my God! Thanks, my beloved people! Here we will continue the treatment," Mr Chavez said via Twitter. Aides confirmed the news.

There had been speculation Mr Chavez was unwell enough to travel despite wanting to return to his homeland for continued treatment for the disease he was first diagnosed with in mid-2011. However, Vice-President Nicolas Maduro said Mr Chavez flew in from Havana and was in a military hospital in Caracas.

Mr Chavez's overnight return will thrill supporters in the nation of 29 million people, where his common touch and welfare policies have made him an idol to the poor. Fireworks could be heard going off in some Caracas neighbourhoods as the news spread and celebrations begun among "Chavistas".

"I remain attached to Christ and trusting in my nurses and doctors. Onwards to victory forever! We will live and we will conquer!" Mr Chavez also Tweeted, adding his thanks to Cuban leaders Raul and Fidel Castro for his treatment there.

Given that ministers said he wanted to return when he was well enough to travel, Mr Chavez's arrival implied some improvement in his condition, at least enough to handle a flight of several hours. But aides have emphasized in recent days his state remains"complex".

Mr Chavez's operation in Havana was his fourth for the cancer first detected in his pelvic area in June 2011.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.