Venezuela's electoral council says President Hugo Chavez has won re-election, defeating challenger Henrique Capriles.

 The National Electoral Council announced on Sunday the president had secured 54.4% of the votes, while his rival Capriles was behind with 44.9%. The turnout was one the highest in Venezuela’s history, with 80.94% of nearly 19 million registered voters in Venezuela making their choice in the election. The Council said election took place transparently under the supervision of domestic and international observers, including a group from the Union of South American nations. Mr. Chavez will take office early next year for another 6-year term.