Venezuela's presidential election will be held on 7 October 2012, the electoral authorities have announced.

委内瑞拉选举机构宣布，将于2012年10月7日举行总统选举。

The date is earlier than expected, as Venezuela's presidential polls are usually held in December.

President Hugo Chavez has said he will seek another term to continue his left-wing "revolution", despite undergoing treatment for cancer.

The main opposition¹ coalition² will choose a candidate to stand against（反对） him in a primary on 12 February.

Mr Chavez immediately expressed his confidence that he would win a third six-year term.

He wrote on Twitter: "7 October 2012: your destiny is written! We will write another revolutionary victory on your page! We will live and we will conquer!"

The left-wing leader, who has governed Venezuela since 1999, has said he wants to serve at least two more terms, which would take him through until 2025.

Mr Chavez, 57, says he is now convalescing³（渐渐康复） after having surgery for cancer in June and subsequent chemotherapy, but the exact nature and extent of his illness has not been made public.

Speaking before the election date was announced, he promised an energetic campaign despite his ill health.

"You won't see Chavez hiding," he said.

"You'll see a recuperated⁴ Chavez touring the country as a candidate, touring the streets at a rhythm set by circumstances."