Venezuelan dictator and simian prince, Hugo Chavez, has arrived in Cuba to have a tumor removed:

Chavez heads to Cuba for urgent tumour removal

President Hugo Chavez bid an emotional farewell laced with references to Jesus Christ and independence hero Simon Bolivar Friday as he departed Venezuela for Cuba for urgent surgery to remove a tumour he says is probably malignant.

Clasping the hand of his youngest daughter, Mr. Chavez addressed allies of his socialist political movement and troops standing at attention at the Miraflores presidential palace.

“I say this from my gut: With cancer or without cancer ... come rain, thunder or lightning ... nobody can avoid a great patriotic victory Oct. 7,” the president said, referring to the date of Venezuela's presidential elections.

“Long live Chavez!” he cried.