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Celebrations on the streets of the Venezuelan capital, as President Hugo Chavez wins re-election.

The socialist president was cheered in Caracas after defeating the opposition's best chance to unseat him in 14 years.

With 90 percent of ballots counted, Chavez took almost 55 percent of the vote - enough for a comfortable win against rival Henrique Capriles.

The victory came just months after cancer treatment had taken Chavez out of the public eye.

SOUNDBITE: PRESIDENT HUGO CHAVEZ SAYING (Spanish):

"I ask God for Him to give me life and health so that I can continue serving the Venezuelan people more each day and better."

In his campaign headquarters, opposition leader Capriles accepted defeat.

After a close race, he urged Chavez to listen to all of those who turned out to vote.

SOUNDBITE: HENRIQUE CAPRILES SAYING (Spanish):

"I hope a political movement that has been in power for 14 years understands that almost half the country does not agree with it. I ask those who remain in power for respect, consideration and recognition of almost half of the country."

With another six-year term beginning, Chavez's rule now extends to two decades in power.