Early results from state and congressional elections in Venezuela indicate a setback for the traditional parties, with emerging political forces making sweeping inroads.

The left-wing alliance backing the leading presidential contender and former coup leader, Hugo Chavez, looks set to win the largest share of seats in Congress, and has also made a strong showing in the contest for state governorships.

The polls are seen as an important test ahead of the presidential election in four weeks time.

Correspondents say many voters blame the traditional parties for the prolonged economic crisis; Mr Chavez has been proposing radical changes to the distribution of income from Venezuela's large oil industry.