Venezuela celebrates independence as Chavez returns

Venezuela celebrated the 200th anniversary of its independence on Tuesday with President Hugo Chavez back in his palace after a triumphant return from cancer surgery in Cuba that has left him weakened but defiant. "Happy Birthday, Dear Fatherland!" the 56-year-old Chavez said via Twitter as his ministers led ceremonies to mark the bicentennial of the end to Spanish colonial rule.
Chavez's return from Havana has allowed him to reassert political control over the South American Opec member but failed to dispel concern his condition may crimp his ability to rule or effectively campaign for a 2012 presidential vote. In a homecoming speech to delirious supporters from the palace balcony late on Monday, Chavez said he still needed medical treatment but vowed to win his health battle. Fireworks blazed from various areas of Caracas as Chavez supporters marked the historic July 5 anniversary at midnight.