Hundreds of thousands of mourners have flooded the streets of the Caracas to honour Hugo Chavez.
The Venezuelan capital was brought to a standstill as the charismatic President's coffin was paraded through the city.
Chavez's body will lie in state until Friday when it will be given a state funeral.
There were emotional scenes as the his grieving mother wept over his coffin as it was taken from a military hospital.
@elizondogabriel
Gabriel Elizondo
Soldiers placed his body on a car which was driven out of the grounds as the flag-waving crowds chanted "Chávez to the pantheon!", Reuters reported.
Vice president, Nicolas Maduro, paid tribute, saying, "His spirit roams freely, filled with light protecting our people.
"Our people are in the streets expressing their solidarity, their feelings."
The icononic president died on Tuesday aged 58, and seven days of mourning have been declared.
SEE ALSO: The Colourful Quotes Of Hugo Chavez
Reaction to the news and assessments of his legacy have been sharply divided around the world.
@nypost
New York Post
But on Wednesday, tearful people waving a sea of red flags symbolised the huge outpouring of grief as the coffin appeared.
The military had called for calm and said it would remain loyal to the vice president.
And it was reported that riot police were standing guard outside a television channel with a history of criticising Chavez.
Meanwhile, other South American leaders have arrived in Caracas to pay their respects.
A supporter of late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez cries during a homage gathering in Madrid, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Some marked Chavez's death with tears; others with cheers. There was deep mourning in Latin American countries. Chavez, who died Tuesday, was seen as a hero by some for his socialist programs, his anti-U.S. rhetoric and gifts of cut-rate oil.(AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza)
A supporter of late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez cries during a homage gathering in Madrid, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Some marked Chavez's death with tears; others with cheers. There was deep mourning in Latin American countries. Chavez, who died Tuesday, was seen as a hero by some for his socialist programs, his anti-U.S. rhetoric and gifts of cut-rate oil.(AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza)
Supporters of late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez holds a flag during a homage gathering in Madrid, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Some marked Chavez's death with tears; others with cheers. There was deep mourning in Latin American countries. Chavez, who died Tuesday, was seen as a hero by some for his socialist programs, his anti-U.S. rhetoric and gifts of cut-rate oil.(AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza)
Supporter of late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez crie during a homage gathering in Madrid, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Some marked Chavez's death with tears; others with cheers. There was deep mourning in Latin American countries. Chavez, who died Tuesday, was seen as a hero by some for his socialist programs, his anti-U.S. rhetoric and gifts of cut-rate oil.(AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza)
A supporter of late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez cries during a homage gathering in Madrid, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Some marked Chavez's death with tears; others with cheers. There was deep mourning in Latin American countries. Chavez, who died Tuesday, was seen as a hero by some for his socialist programs, his anti-U.S. rhetoric and gifts of cut-rate oil.(AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza)
A supporter of late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez cries during a homage gathering in Madrid, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Some marked Chavez's death with tears; others with cheers. There was deep mourning in Latin American countries. Chavez, who died Tuesday, was seen as a hero by some for his socialist programs, his anti-U.S. rhetoric and gifts of cut-rate oil.(AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza)
In this photo released by Miraflores Presidential Press Office, supporters of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez crowd the street, surrounding his coffin as it is paraded from the hospital, where he died on Tuesday, to a military academy where his body will lie in state in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral Friday. (AP Photo/Miraflores Presidential Press Office)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
The hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez makes its way to the Military Academy amid thousands of supporters, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. Venezuela was plunged into uncertainty Wednesday after the death on the eve of President Hugo Chavez, who dominated the oil-rich country for 14 years and came to embody a resurgent Latin American left. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH
members of the Bolivarian National Guard form a cordon in front of the Military Hospital --where the late President Hugo Chavez had been hospitalized-- a day after his death in March 6, 2013, in Caracas. Venezuela was plunged into uncertainty Wednesday after the death of President Hugo Chavez, who dominated the oil-rich country for 14 years and came to embody a resurgent Latin American left. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters accompany the hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. Venezuela was plunged into uncertainty Wednesday after the death on the eve of President Hugo Chavez, who dominated the oil-rich country for 14 years and came to embody a resurgent Latin American left. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters accompany the hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. Venezuela was plunged into uncertainty Wednesday after the death on the eve of President Hugo Chavez, who dominated the oil-rich country for 14 years and came to embody a resurgent Latin American left. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters accompany the hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. Venezuela was plunged into uncertainty Wednesday after the death on the eve of President Hugo Chavez, who dominated the oil-rich country for 14 years and came to embody a resurgent Latin American left. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters accompany the hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. Venezuela was plunged into uncertainty Wednesday after the death on the eve of President Hugo Chavez, who dominated the oil-rich country for 14 years and came to embody a resurgent Latin American left. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters accompany the hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Venezuelan acting President Nicolas Maduro (R) and thousands of supporters accompany the hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
The hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez makes its way to the Military Academy amid thousands of supporters, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
The hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez makes its way to the Military Academy amid thousands of supporters, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Venezuelan acting President Nicolas Maduro (3rd R) greets supporters while accompanying the hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
The hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez makes its way to the Military Academy amid thousands of supporters, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
The hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez makes its way to the Military Academy amid thousands of supporters, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez accompany the funeral cortege on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez accompany the funeral cortege on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
The hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez makes its way to the Military Academy amid thousands of supporters, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
A member of the Presidential Guard of Honor holds a replica of Simon Bolivar's sword while accompanying the hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. Venezuela was plunged into uncertainty Wednesday after the death on the eve of President Hugo Chavez, who dominated the oil-rich country for 14 years and came to embody a resurgent Latin American left. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez accompany the funeral cortege on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Venezuelan acting President Nicolas Maduro (C) raises his fist while accompanying the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez funeral cortege on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Supporters of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez wait for the passage of the funeral cortege on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Venezuelan acting President Nicolas Maduro (R) and Bolivian President Evo Morales (C in white) accompany the hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on its way to the Militar Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. Venezuela was plunged into uncertainty Wednesday after the death on the eve of President Hugo Chavez, who dominated the oil-rich country for 14 years and came to embody a resurgent Latin American left. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez wait for the passage of the funeral cortege on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez wait for the passage of the funeral cortege on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez wait outside the Military Hospital for the funeral cortege, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Supporters of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez wait for the passage of the funeral cortege on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez wait for the passage of the funeral cortege on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Venezuelan acting President Nicolas Maduro (C) raises his fist while accompanying the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez funeral cortege on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Thousands of supporters of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez wait for the passage of the funeral cortege on its way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL-CORTEGE
Venezuelan acting President Nicolas Maduro (3rd R back) and Bolivian President Evo Morales (C in white) accompany the hearse carrying the coffin of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on its way to the Militar Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. Venezuela was plunged into uncertainty Wednesday after the death on the eve of President Hugo Chavez, who dominated the oil-rich country for 14 years and came to embody a resurgent Latin American left. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
FRANCE-VENEZUELA-POLITICS
This picture taken on March 6, 2013 near the Alexandre III bridge in Paris, shows a poster of Hugo Chavez, during a rally in tribute to the Venezuelian President who died from cancer at 58, on March 5. 'What he is never dies', wrote French far-left Parti de Gauche (PG) party leader, Jean-Luc Melenchon in a tweet last night. Melenchon, who took part to the rally, paid several visits to Venezuela during Chavez' presidency. AFP PHOTO / PIERRE ANDRIEU (Photo credit should read PIERRE ANDRIEU/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-CHAVEZ-DEATH-FUNERAL - CORTEGE
Bolivian president Evo Morales (C white shirt) walks next to the coffin of late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on his way to the Military Academy, on March 6, 2013, in Caracas. The flag-draped coffin of Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez was borne through throngs of weeping supporters on Wednesday as a nation bade farewell to the firebrand leftist who led them for 14 years. AFP PHOTO/Juan BARRETO (Photo credit should read JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)
Workers gather for a tribute to Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez during a march by the Central Labor Union in Brasilia, Brazil, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Chavez, who died Tuesday at age 58, was seen as a hero by some for his socialist programs, his anti-U.S. rhetoric and gifts of cut-rate oil. Others considered him a bully who repressed his opponents. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
Nicolas Maduro, Evo Morales
Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro, center, raises his fist next to Bolivia's President Evo Morales, center left, as they walk along the coffin containing the remains of President Hugo Chavez in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Maduro will continue to run Venezuela as interim president and be the governing socialists' candidate in an election to be called within 30 days. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral Friday.(AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)
A supporter of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez holds a picture of him above a crowd waiting for Chavez's coffin to be taken from the hospital where he died on Tuesday, to a military academy where it will remain until his funeral in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral Friday. (AP Photo/Ricardo Mazalan)
A woman holding a Venezuelan flag cries as she watches the coffin containing the body of the late President Hugo Chavez be taken from the hospital, where he died on Tuesday, to a military academy in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral on Friday. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)
A woman cries as she watches the coffin containing the body of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez be taken from the hospital, where he died on Tuesday, to a military academy in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral on Friday. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)
Supporters stand on highway overpasses to get a view of the flag-draped coffin containing the body of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez being taken from the hospital, where he died on Tuesday, to a military academy in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral Friday. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)
Supporters of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez embrace as the coffin containing his body passes in the street as it is taken from the hospital, where he died on Tuesday, to a military academy where it will remain until his funeral in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral Friday. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)
An image of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez sits on display at a chapel inside Congress in La Paz, Bolivia, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Chavez, who died Tuesday at age 58, was seen as a hero by some for his socialist programs, his anti-U.S. rhetoric and gifts of cut-rate oil. Others considered him a bully who repressed his opponents. (AP Photo/Juan Karita)
A woman holds a newspaper with the headline in Spanish "He's left us" as she stands with fellow supporters of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez to watch his coffin pass by, as it is paraded from the hospital where he died on Tuesday to a military academy where it will remain until his funeral in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral Friday. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)
A supporter of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez holds images of him while the coffin containing his body passes in the street, from the hospital where he died on Tuesday to a military academy where it will remain until his funeral in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral Friday. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)
A man holds up a photo of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez as he watches Chavez's coffin be paraded from the hospital where he died on Tuesday to a military academy where it will remain until his funeral in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral Friday. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)
A man screams as the coffin of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez passes in the street as it is paraded from the hospital where he died on Tuesday to a military academy where it will remain until his funeral in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral Friday. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)
The flag-draped coffin containing the body of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez is taken from the hospital where he died, to a military academy where it will remain until his funeral in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Seven days of mourning were declared, all schools were suspended for the week and friendly heads of state were expected for an elaborate funeral Friday. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos)
Adam Chavez, Hugo Chavez
In this undated photo released by Miraflores Press Office, Hugo Chavez, right, sits with his brother Adam in Barinas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Miraflores Press Office)
Hugo Chavez
In this undated photo released by Miraflores Press Office, Hugo Chavez is seen in a family photo in Barinas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that President Hugo Chavez has died at age 58 after a nearly two-year bout with cancer. During more than 14 years in office, Chavez routinely challenged the status quo at home and internationally. He polarized Venezuelans with his confrontational and domineering style, yet was also a masterful communicator and strategist who tapped into Venezuelan nationalism to win broad support, particularly among the poor. (AP Photo/Miraflores Press Office)
Hugo Chavez
In this March 1971 photo released by Miraflores Press Office, Hugo Chavez poses for a photo prior to his admission to the military academy in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Miraflores Press Office)
Hugo Chavez, Elena Frias, Hugo de los Reyes Chavez
In this July 5, 1975 photo released by Miraflores Press Office, Hugo Chavez, center, poses with his mother Elena Frias and father Hugo de los Reyes Chavez at his graduation from the military academy in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Miraflores Press Office)
Hugo Chavez
In this undated photo released by Miraflores Press Office, Hugo Chavez, right, sings folkloric Venezuelan music during an event at the military academy in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Miraflores Press Office)
Hugo Chavez
In this photo released by Miraflores Press Office, Hugo Chavez, top left, poses with fellow members of the failed coup as they serve time in Yare II jail near Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Miraflores Press Office)
Hugo Chavez
In this undated photo released by Miraflores Press Office, Lieutenant Hugo Chavez poses for a photo at the Military Academy in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Miraflores Press Office)
Hugo Chavez
In this March 1972 photo released by Miraflores Press Office, Hugo Chavez, bottom row, right, poses with his baseball teammates during the internal games at the Military Academy in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Miraflores Press Office)
Hugo Chavez
In this April 1971 photo released by Miraflores Press Office, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez, right, receives a dagger during his ceremony to enter the military academy in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Miraflores Press Office)
Hugo Chavez
In this undated photo released by Miraflores Press Office, Hugo Chavez poses as he serves time in the Yare II prison near Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Miraflores Press Office)
Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this Feb. 4, 1992 file photo, paratroop commander Hugo Chavez talks to reporters at the Defense Ministry after he surrendered to the troops loyal to the government of Carlos Andres Perez in Caracas, Venezuela. Chavaz surrendered in the western city of Valencia and was transported to Caracas, where he called his followers to give up their arms. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Ali Gomez, File)
Hugo Chavez, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
FILE - In this Sept. 18, 2006 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez, left, and Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad wave to the press after inaugurating an oil drill in San Tome, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano, File)
Muammar Gaddafi, Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this Sept. 28, 2009 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez, right, shows Libya's President Moammar Gadhafi a replica of Venezuelan Independence hero Simon Bolivar's sword after giving it as a gift to Gadhafi in Porlamar, Margarita Island, Venezuela. Now that Gadhafi has been ousted and is in hiding, Chavez is one of the few heads of state still openly supporting him. Chavez said Friday, Sept. 9, 2011 he thinks Gadhafi will not flee Libya. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano, file)
US President George W. Bush (behind) wal
US President George W. Bush (behind) walks past Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez after Bush spoke at the Inauguration Ceremony of the Special Summit of The Americas at the Parque Fundidora in Monterrey, Mexico 12 January 2004. More than 30 leaders from American nations gathered Monday in the Mexican city of Monterrey for a two-day summit expected to be marked by divergences between US President George W. Bush and counterparts from Latin America. AFP PHOTO/Luke FRAZZA (Photo credit should read LUKE FRAZZA/AFP/Getty Images)
FILE - In this Aug. 11, 2000 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez, front right, walks with Iraqi's President Saddam Hussein at Saddam airport in Baghdad, Iraq. Chavez, the first national leader to visit Iraq since the Gulf War in 1991, was leaving the country after a short visit as part of a tour of OPEC countries. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/INA, Pool, File)
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, right, directs Zimbabwean
VENEZUELA - FEBRUARY 26: Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, right, directs Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe during a welcoming ceremony at the presidential residence in Caracas, Venezuela, on Thursday, February 26, 2004. Mugabe is one of the leaders of developing nations from Africa, Asia and Latin America who are gathering in Caracas for a summit this week. (Photo by David Rochkind/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez (C) em
Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez (C) embraces Zimbawe's President Robert Mugabe (R), behind UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, during the official photograph of the Group of 77 South Summit, in Havana, 12 April 2000. Twenty-seven heads of State and 15 Prime Ministers from the Group are attending the summit. (ELECTRONIC IMAGE) (Photo credit should read YURI CORTEZ/AFP/Getty Images)
Hugo Chavez dies
File photo dated 23/10/2001 Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez being greeted by Prime Minister Tony Blair at No.10 Downing Street in London. Chavez has died, according to Vice President Nicolas Maduro.
Hugo Chavez dies
File photo dated 24/10/2001 of Queen Elizabeth II with the President of Venezuela His Excellency Hugo Chavez at Buckingham Palace in London. Chavez has died, according to Vice President Nicolas Maduro.
FILE - In this April 18, 2009 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez, right, hands President Barack Obama the book titled "The Open Veins of Latin America" by Uruguayan writer Eduardo Galeano at a UNASUR countries meeting during the Summit of the Americas in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)
Hugo Chavez dies
File photo dated 15/5/2006 of Mayor of London Ken Livingstone meeting President Hugo Chavez, President of Venezuela, at City Hall, London. Chavez has died, according to Vice President Nicolas Maduro.
FILE - In this Oct. 17, 2006 file photo, Italy's President Silvio Berlusconi, left, shakes hands with Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez at a meeting in Milan, Italy. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died at age 58 after a nearly two-year bout with cancer. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno, File)
Hugo Chavez, Rosa Virginia Chavez , Maria Gabriela Chavez
FILE - In this file photo released on Feb. 15, 2013 by Miraflores Presidential Press Office, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez, center, poses for a photo with his daughters, Maria Gabriela, left, and Rosa Virginia at an unknown location in Havana, Cuba, Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Miraflores Presidential Press Office, File)
Hugo Chavez dies
File photo dated 15/5/2006 of President of Venezuela Hugo Chavez who has died, according to Vice President Nicolas Maduro.
Hugo Chavez dies
File photo dated 14/5/2006 of President of Venezuela Hugo Chavez addressing crowds of supporters at the Camden Centre, London. Chavez has died, according to Vice President Nicolas Maduro.
Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this June 2, 2001 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez holds up a small copy of his nation's constitution as he visits a Citgo Petroleum Corp refinery in Corpus Christi, Texas. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Corpus Christi Caller-Times, George Tuley, File)
Hugo Chavez, Luiz Inacio Lula
FILE - In this Nov. 13, 2006 file photo, Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, right, and Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez greet people during the inauguration ceremony of an oil drill in Campo Morichal, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano, File)
Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this Dec. 5, 2001 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez gestures before a painting of Venezuelan independence hero Simon Bolivar at an event at Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Leslie Mazoch, File)
Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this May 14, 2004 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez gives a press conference at the presidential palace in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Leslie Mazoch, File)
Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this June 2, 2011 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez, left, holds a crutch as he welcomes Brazil's former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, not in picture, at Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos, File)
FILE - In this April 14, 2002 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez gestures to supporters as he arrives to Miraflores presidential palace after being freed by his military captors two days after the military announced he had resigned, in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills, File)
FILE - In this Nov. 19, 2005 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez wears a Mexican sombrero as he sings a Mexican ranchera song at a rally in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano, File)
Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this Oct. 9, 2012 file photo, backdropped by a portrait of independence hero Simon Bolivar, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez talks during a press conference at the Miraflores palace in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd, File)
Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this Feb. 4, 1999 file photo, Venezuela's newly sworn in President Hugo Chavez salutes the crowd next to his wife Marisabel Chavez during a military parade commemorating the seventh anniversary of his failed 1992 coup in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Douglas Engle, File)
Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this July 24, 2000 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez holds Simon Bolivar's sword at an event celebrating the independence hero's 114th birthday in Caracas, Venezuela. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Andres Leighton, File)
Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this Feb. 5, 1992 file photo, paratroop commander Hugo Chavez, center, is escorted by military intelligence officers after being arrested for trying to overthrow Venezuela's government in a coup. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Andres Leighton, File)
FILE - In this Feb. 4, 1997 file photo, Hugo Chavez, a retired army lieutenant colonel who led a coup attempt in 1992, waves to people gathered in Caracas Square to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the failed coup in Caracas, Venezuela. The coup attempt sent shock waves through Latin America, since oil-rich Venezuela is one of the region's oldest democracies and for years was considered a model for Third World economic development. The girl is unidentified. Venezuela's Vice President Nicolas Maduro announced on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 that Chavez has died. Chavez, 58, was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2011. (AP Photo/Jose Caruci, File)
Hugo Chavez, Raul Castro
FILE - In this Dec. 10, 2012 file photo released by Cuba's state newspaper Granma, Cuba's President Raul Castro, right, receives Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez at the Jose Marti International airport in Havana, Cuba. Chavez arrived in Cuba on Dec. 10, 2012 for a fourth cancer-related operation after designating Vice President Nicolas Maduro as his political heir. The long and at times surreal saga surrounding the cancer treatment of President Hugo Chavez has many Venezuelan writers and intellectuals likening the nation's drama to a telenovela. Venezuela has long produced soap operas, and some say no one could have imagined a more bizarre plot than the one unfolding in the more than seven weeks since Chavez traveled to Cuba for his operation and disappeared from public view. (AP Photo/Granma, File)
FILE - In this July 3, 2012 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez, left, greets Major General Wilmer Barrientos after he was promoted at a military ceremony in Fuerte Tiuna military base in Caracas, Venezuela. A former paratrooper, Chavez enjoys explicit support from two of the country's top military leaders, Defense Minister Adm. Diego Molero and chief strategic operational officer, top army Gen. Wilmer Barrientos. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos, File)
Hugo Chavez, Diego Molero, Nicolas Maduro
FILE - In this Dec 10, 2012 file photo released by Miraflores Press Office, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez, right, swears in Defense Minister Diego Molero, left, as Vice President Nicolas Maduro looks on at Miraflores Presidential palace in Caracas, Venezuela. A former paratrooper, Chavez enjoys explicit support from two of the countrys top military leaders, Defense Minister Adm. Diego Molero and chief strategic operational officer, top army Gen. Wilmer Barrientos. (AP Photo/Miraflores Press Office, Marcelo Garcia, File)
FILE - In this June 24, 2012 file photo, National Assembly President Diosdado Cabello, left, President Hugo Chavez, center, and Defense Minister Gen. Henry Rangel attend a military parade at the military academy in Fuerte Tiuna, Caracas, Venezuela. With Chavez now knocked low by a stubborn cancer and the future of his government in question, the armed forces may not be so prepared to hold the country together this time. A former military officer and several experts said the president's five-week absence has created a gaping hole at the top of the chain of command, one that the governing duo of Vice President Nicolas Maduro and National Assembly President Diosdado Cabello has proven incapable of filling. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos, File)
Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this Oct. 20, 2011 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez speaks to soldiers in La Fria, Venezuela. With Chavez now knocked low by a stubborn cancer and the future of his government in question, the armed forces may not be so prepared to hold the country together this time. A former military officer and several experts said the presidents five-week absence has created a gaping hole at the top of the chain of command, one that the governing duo of Vice President Nicolas Maduro and National Assembly President Diosdado Cabello has proven incapable of filling. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano, File)
Cristina Fernandez, Hugo Chavez
FILE - In this March 29, 2011 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez, left, and Argentina's President Cristina Fernandez gesture before signing commercial accords during a visit to a state-run shipyard in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Fernandez is in Cuba on Friday, Jan. 11, 2013, to visit Chavez who is recovering from cancer surgery. The Venezuelan leader, normally at the center of national attention, is so ill following a fourth cancer surgery in Cuba that he has made no broadcast statement in more than a month, and has not appeared in a single photo. Officials have not specified what sort of cancer he suffers. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko, File)
FOR USE AS DESIRED, YEAR END PHOTOS - FILE - In this July 24, 2012 file photo, Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez holds up a pair of pistols that he says belonged to Venezuela's independence hero Simon Bolivar during a ceremony marking 229th anniversary of Bolivar's birth at Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas, Venezuela. Bolivar is the namesake of Chavez's Bolivarian Revolution movement, and his government is putting the finishing touches on a new mausoleum to house Bolivar's remains. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano, File)
VENEZUELA-BRAZIL-CHAVEZ-PATRIOTA
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez (R) approaches to embrace Brazilian Foreign Minister Antonio de Aguilar Patriota during an official visit to Miraflores Presidential Palace in Caracas, on November 1, 2012. AFP PHOTO/Leo RAMIREZ (Photo credit should read LEO RAMIREZ/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-BRAZIL-CHAVEZ-PATRIOTA
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez (R) speaks next to Brazilian Foreign Minister Antonio de Aguilar Patriota during an official visit at Miraflores Presidential Palace in Caracas, on November 1, 2012. AFP PHOTO/Leo RAMIREZ (Photo credit should read LEO RAMIREZ/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-BRAZIL-CHAVEZ-PATRIOTA
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez speaks during Brazilian Foreign Minister Antonio de Aguilar Patriota's official visit at Miraflores Presidential Palace in Caracas, on November 1, 2012. AFP PHOTO/Leo RAMIREZ (Photo credit should read LEO RAMIREZ/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-ELECTIONS-CHAVEZ-PROCLAMATION
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez shows the National Electoral Center document certifying his victory on past October 7 elections during the proclamation act in Caracas on October 10, 2012. AFP PHOTO/Leo RAMIREZ (Photo credit should read LEO RAMIREZ/AFP/GettyImages)
VENEZUELA-BRAZIL-CHAVEZ-PATRIOTA
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez (R) speaks next to Brazilian Foreign Minister Antonio de Aguilar Patriota during an official visit to Miraflores Presidential Palace in Caracas, on November 1, 2012. AFP PHOTO/Leo RAMIREZ (Photo credit should read LEO RAMIREZ/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-BRAZIL-CHAVEZ-PATRIOTA
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez (C) speaks during Brazilian Foreign Minister Antonio de Aguilar Patriota's official visit at Miraflores Presidential Palace in Caracas, on November 1, 2012. AFP PHOTO/Leo RAMIREZ (Photo credit should read LEO RAMIREZ/AFP/Getty Images)
VENEZUELA-BRAZIL-CHAVEZ-PATRIOTA
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez speaks during Brazilian Foreign Minister Antonio de Aguilar Patriota's official visit at Miraflores Presidential Palace in Caracas, on November 1, 2012. AFP PHOTO/Leo RAMIREZ (Photo credit should read LEO RAMIREZ/AFP/Getty Images)
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The Huffington Post UK | Posted: 06/03/2013 18:09 GMT | Updated: 06/03/2013 22:24 GMT