Protests Erupt in Venezuela Over Contested Election Results; 11 Dead as Maduro Blames Rivals
In Venezuela, tensions have soared following the recent election that saw President Nicolás Maduro re-elected. The opposition, led by María Corina Machado, is disputing the election results and calling for widespread protests, which have intensified across the country. Machado claims that presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez won decisively, a statement that has sparked significant unrest.
On Tuesday, protesters took to the streets in Caracas and other cities, including Valencia, Maracay, San Cristóbal, Maracaibo, and Barquisimeto. Many demonstrators waved Venezuelan flags and chanted slogans against Maduro, while Machado encouraged peaceful assemblies and denounced the election as fraudulent.
The National Electoral Council (CNE) confirmed Maduro’s re-election for another six-year term, prompting widespread anger and large-scale protests. The demonstrators faced harsh responses from security forces, including tear gas and rubber bullets, leading to numerous clashes and reported violence.
The Venezuelan Conflict Observatory reported 187 protests across 20 states by Monday evening, accompanied by significant repression and violence. Rights group Foro Penal confirmed that at least 11 people had been killed in connection with the protests and election-related violence.
Amid the chaos, opposition party Voluntad Popular announced the detention of its national coordinator, Freddy Superlano. President Maduro dismissed international criticism and accused his rival, Gonzalez, of orchestrating a “coup d’état” and inciting violence. He has labeled the protesters as “violent agitators” and warned of forthcoming justice for those responsible for the unrest.
(With inputs from agency)
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