New Photo of Hugo Chavez Released after Two Month Absence

Unfortunately, he appears to be alive:

More from the AP:

The world got its first glimpse of Hugo Chavez since he underwent a fourth cancer-related surgery in Cuba more than two months ago, with photos released Friday showing the Venezuelan leader alongside his daughters in Havana.

Along with images of the puffy-faced Chavez came a government explanation for why no one has heard from the longtime president since his surgery: He's breathing through a tracheal tube that makes speech difficult.

Chavez's government described his condition as "delicate" and said he continues to undergo "vigorous treatment for his fundamental illness." The images and new details filled a vacuum of information about Chavez's condition that has spurred rampant speculation in Venezuela. Government officials say Chavez has been recovering in Cuba since undergoing cancer surgery on Dec. 11.

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