Dissident general under arrest
Venezuela's military has detained a dissident army general who opposes the socialist ideology espoused by President Hugo Chavez.
General Angel Vivas Perdomo is being held by military intelligence agents after they detained him while driving near his home in eastern Caracas, said his lawyer, Jose Zaa.
"We hope that he leaves because he shouldn't be facing charges," Mr Zaa said.
Gen Vivas Perdomo has asked Venezuela's Supreme Court to throw out Mr Chavez's order for troops to salute with the motto: "Fatherland, socialism or death - we will triumph."
The general claims the motto is unconstitutional and that it violates the military's apolitical tradition.
Mr Zaa said it was not clear why the general was detained.
Hours earlier, Gen Vivas Perdomo told reporters that the Cuban-inspired slogan used by Mr Chavez should be replaced with a historic statement once made by 19th-century independence hero Francisco de Miranda: "Death to tyranny, long live freedom!"
Mr Chavez - a former paratroop commander - has recently warned that his opponents are attempting to stir up discontent in the barracks.
But the socialist leader says the military is prepared to defeat a possible coup attempt.
The president survived a short-lived military rebellion in 2002.