Chavez in 'most difficult hours' of life

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is “battling for his life” and is undergoing “his most difficult hours”, his deputy Nicolas Maduro said on state TV.

“Our commander is sick because he gave his life for those who don’t have anything,” the BBC quoted Maduro as saying.

Chavez has not been seen in public since he had cancer surgery in Cuba in December and is reported to have a severe respiratory infection.

The government earlier said that Chavez, now back in Venezuela, is running the country from the hospital.

Chavez, who has been in office for 14 years, is believed to have cancer in his pelvic area but his exact illness has never been disclosed.