Maduro and Capriles kick off Venezuelan campaign

The two men vying to replace the late Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, have addressed tens of thousands of people on the first official day of campaigning for this month's election.

Acting President Nicolas Maduro, began his campaign in Mr Chavez's hometown, Sabaneta de Barinas.

Opposition candidate Henrique Capriles said in Monagas state the government would do anything to hold on to power.

The BBC's Irene Caselli, in Caracas, says insecurity and the fear of violence are high on the campaign agenda.