Supporters Pray as Chavez Clings to Life

Wait for any scrap of information

The change of mood in Plaza Bolivar could hardly be more dramatic. Less than three months ago jubilant crowds filled the main square in Caracas to celebrate another election triumph for Hugo Chávez with chants of "Oo, ah, Chávez no se va" – Chávez won't go.

Now, however, supporters waited anxiously for any scrap of news from Havana, where their president is fighting for his life after emergency cancer surgery.

"We are all very confused. We have no idea what to expect. I pray for his recovery but I am expecting the worst," said Joaquín Cavarcas, as he scanned the Ciudad CCS newspaper for the latest update.