LatinNews Daily Report - 27 February 2013

POLITICS | Government turns a deaf ear to student, opposition demands. Small groups of students continue to protest in Caracas calling for the government to clarify the uncertainty surrounding the seriously ill President Hugo Chávez. The students have shifted their focus from the Cuban embassy to the supreme court of justice (TSJ), where yesterday a group of about 50 demanded that the court swear in Chávez for the new term to which he was elected last October.  Chanting, “Who are we? Students! And what do we want? The truth!” and “No to the Cuban intervention!” the students were surrounded by national police officers to prevent them from chaining themselves to the building’s railings. Opposition media claimed that 10 protestors were injured. The government continues to reject the calls for Chávez to be sworn in, arguing that he remains in power and continues to run the country from his hospital bed. Vice President Nicolás Maduro yesterday admitted that the president was still suffering from breathing difficulties and added that he had begun “very tough” complementary treatments for his base illness (i.e. his cancer).  The supreme court argued in a 9 January ruling that the swearing-in ceremony could take place at any time and said that the president re-elect and his cabinet could remain in situ under the principle of administrative continuity.  National Assembly President Diosdado Cabello said on Monday (25 February) that Chavez would himself decide when to swear in, in consultation with the TSJ.