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Chavez Cuts TV Debate After Row With Writer

Program suspended after challenge Vargas Llosa

By Amelia Atlas,  Newser User

Posted May 31, 2009 7:40 AM CDT

(Newser) – Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez cancelled an edition of his TV show after a confrontation with famous Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa, reports the BBC. Chavez had challenged Vargas Llosa to hold a televised debate with pro-Chavez academics. In a volley of insults, Vargas Llosa responded that he would only debate Chavez directly. The Chavez program, Alo Presidente, is expected to resume today.

Chavez supporters hold up a banner with images of both Bush presidents and Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa during a protest against the Freedom and Democracy forum in Caracas earlier this week.
Chavez supporters hold up a banner with images of both Bush presidents and Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa during a protest against the "Freedom and Democracy" forum in Caracas earlier this week.   (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos)
Elsa Morales watches Hugo Chavez during his program Alo Presidente. Chavez invited his prominent critics, including Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa, to debate academic scholars about him.
Elsa Morales watches Hugo Chavez during his program "Alo Presidente." Chavez invited his prominent critics, including Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa, to debate academic scholars about him.   (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos)
Peruvian writer and Hugo Chavez critic Mario Vargas Llosa attends a ceremony at Catolica University in Lima last year when hereceived the title of Honoris Causa from the university.
Peruvian writer and Hugo Chavez critic Mario Vargas Llosa attends a ceremony at Catolica University in Lima last year when hereceived the title of Honoris Causa from the university.   (AP Photo/Karel Navarro)
Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez waves upon his arrival in Quito, Ecuador, last week.
Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez waves upon his arrival in Quito, Ecuador, last week.   (AP Photo/Dolores Ochoa)
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