VENEZUELA: Supporters of President Hugo Chavez flood the streets to mark the 10-year anniversary of a coup attempt that left up to 19 dead

Record ID: 860952

  • Title: VENEZUELA: Supporters of President Hugo Chavez flood the streets to mark the 10-year anniversary of a coup attempt that left up to 19 dead
  • Date: 12th April 2012
  • Summary: VARIOUS OF CHAVEZ'S SUPPORTERS SINGING VENEZUELA'S NATIONAL ANTHEM
  • Embargoed: 27th April 2012 13:00
  • Keywords:
  • Location: Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of
  • City:
  • Country: Venezuela
  • Topics: Politics
  • Reuters ID: LVA5QC9YRF033H2ZC06EG42W5Q5T
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  • Story Text: Venezuelans commemorated on Wednesday (April 11) the ten-year anniversary of a failed coup attempt against President Hugo Chavez.
    On April 11, 2002, the streets of Caracas descended into chaos as opposition politicians and dissident troops led a coup against him. However, supporters and loyal soldiers swept Chavez back into power in less than two days.
    Dozens were wounded, and 17 to 19 people were killed during the uprising.
    Venezuelans honoured the dead on Wednesday with vigils and prayers. April 11 has been dedicated as the National Day of the Fallen in the Fight for Independence and National Sovereignty.
    "Ten years ago, the people responded to an attack by the bourgeoisie oligarchy that just wanted to regain power at the expense of the people. In fact 17 people were killed on both sides, more on the side of the revolution, I even dare to say that this was something set up by the North American empire," said Luis Gonzalez, a Chavez supporter who spent the day in Caracas' main plaza.
    The anniversary comes as Hugo Chavez undergoes cancer treatment in Cuba. He sent a message via Twitter to his supporters to remember those who were killed. Meanwhile, supporters honoured him in an event where they recounted his rise to power.
    Chavez is currently up for reelection in October.
  • Copyright Holder: REUTERS
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