Chavez, the firebrand President of Venezuela, has died at the age of 58.
Unlike last week's erroneous reports of his demise, this time it's the real deal.
Vice President Nicolas Maduro, who reported that Chavez was battling for life earlier this week, confirmed that he lost the battle about 45 minutes ago.
Maduro said that Hugo Chavez died at 4:25 p.m. Tuesday.
"We must unite now more than ever," said Maduro, fighting back tears and flanked by cabinet ministers, calling on Venezuelans to remain "peaceful and respectful."
Maduro said plans for Chavez's state funeral are still TBA.
He also did not specify if/when elections would be held.
"Our people can count on having a government of men and women committed to protecting them," Maduro told the South American nation, according to CNN.

source:www.slykanddistinctmag.com