Chavez ally raises specter of opposition violence

Source: Reuters

President Hugo Chavez's big poll lead puts him in a strong position ahead of Venezuela's presidential election, but it could also convince radical opponents violence is the only way to beat him, a senior campaign strategist said.

Despite ongoing cancer treatment, Chavez is favored to extend his 13-year rule at the October 7 vote, with most opinion polls giving him an advantage of at least 10 percentage points over opposition candidate Henrique Capriles.

Speculation is rife that Chavez's coalition could fragment if his illness worsens, but his team insists it is not looking at a back-up plan.

Government officials are repeatedly telling Venezuelans to beware of subterfuge by foes, though no concrete evidence has been given for this.

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