The political opposition in Venezuela is calling for more mass demonstrations following President Nicolas Maduro’s disputed election victory. Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado is urging Venezuelans to protest the re-election, which has led to a political crisis and international criticism. While the National Electoral Council declared Maduro the winner with 51% support, the opposition’s tally shows his main challenger, Edmundo Gonzalez, received more than double the votes. Maduro has faced pressure to provide a transparent accounting of the vote, but has accused his opponents of stoking unrest.
Protests in the capital and other parts of Venezuela have led to arrests and reports of deaths. Human Rights Watch is calling for the Venezuelan authorities to respect the democratic process and refrain from persecution and repression. Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil are urging electoral authorities to release detailed ballot box results publicly.
In response to criticism, Venezuela has expelled diplomats from Argentina and five other countries. The United States has recognized Gonzalez as the winner of the election and is calling for a peaceful transition according to Venezuelan electoral law. Gonzalez thanked the US for recognizing the will of the Venezuelan people and supporting the restoration of democratic norms in the country. The Venezuelan Supreme Court has summoned presidential candidates for a hearing to investigate and certify the election results.
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Venezuelan opposition calls for increased protests as tensions continue to rise after elections
