Venezuelan Military Confirms Plot to Assassinate Hugo Chavez
Venezuelan officers confirmed Sunday the existence of a plot to assassinate President Hugo Chavez, that´s why the site of the parade for the anniversary of the Battle of Carabobo on June 24 has been changed.

Defense minister, General in Chief Jorge Luis García Carneiro, and Army Commander, Division General Raul Baduel, told media that the evidence recommended not to expose Chavez to unnecessary danger.

This time, the annual parade will not be staged in the traditional site of the decisive battle for national independence, but at the military compound of Fuerte Tiuna in Caracas, probably with the presence of the head of State.

Div. Gral. Baduel stressed that so far President Chavez has underlined his desire to preside over the parade.

He told mass media the event on Army´s Day will have the participation of the Army´s Air Command and a representation of land units.

Venezuelan authorities have ruled the involvement of active military in the assassination plot, which is attributed to individuals residing abroad, mainly ex military linked to the failed coup of 2002 and internal opposition groups.

For his part, Defense Minister García Carneiro said Chavez will attend public celebration for Independence Day next July 5th, though under strict security measures.

He added that the president will not ride on a convertible car as it was scheduled in the parade for the occasion and his presence in the main platform will be short.

"We´ll step up measures because he risks too much and fears nothing. We have to hold him up," the high ranking officer pointed out.

García Carneiro explained that "worrying reports" combine with the US government´s recent failure at the Organization of American States and augmented accusations against Venezuela to reinforce the likelihood of an assassination plot.