President Hugo Chavez’s condition is improving ,according to a health update issued  on Saturday.

“Despite his delicate state … in recent days the general medical evolution has been favorable,” said the update. “The respiratory infection is controlled, though the commander-president still requires specific measures to solve breathing insufficiency … he is conscious.” the statement reads

The 58-year-old has not been seen since his cancer surgery on 11 December – his fourth such operation after the disease was detected in his pelvic area in mid-2011 – leaving Venezuela in a state of suspense.

His older brother Adán Chávez, who is governor of the family’s home state of Barinas as refuted claims of the leader being in a coma.

“Information on social networks and in other places, saying the president is in a coma and his family are discussing the supposed disconnection of life support equipment, are totally false,” it added.

Chávez missed his own inauguration for a new six-year term last week, although Venezuela’s top court ruled that he remained in power and vice-president Nicolas Maduro could deputise until there was clarity over the president’s condition.

By UP