Chavez eyes Venezuelan presidency until 2031

Jan 28, 2012, 2:05 GMT

Caracas - Hugo Chavez, the left-wing populist president of Venezuela who stands for reelection in October, wants to remain in power until 2031.

'I will do everything I can - politically and physically - to stay here until 2031; with democratic support from 2013 to 2019; 2019 to 2025; and 2025 to 2031. It will of course depend on the people of Venezuela,' the 57-year-old told journalists Friday in Caracas.

On February 2, Chavez will celebrate his 13th year in power. He stands for reelection on October 7.

The socialist declared that Venezuela had never in its 200-year history experienced such a democratic process as today under his leadership.

'They call me the tyrant, the putschist. They are the putschists, I am a rebel,' he said.

The Venezuelan opposition plans to choose its candidate in public primary voting on February 12. There are six candidates, including Miranda state governor Henrique Capriles and member of parliament Corina Machado.