At least 11 people have died as protests in Venezuela turned violent following opposition disputes over the election results. Demonstrations erupted in Valencia, Maracay, San Cristobal, Maracaibo, and Barquisimeto after the National Electoral Council announced President Nicolás Maduro's re-election for another six-year term. The opposition claims the election was fraudulent, sparking widespread anger and leading thousands to protest.
Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado called for "popular assemblies" across the nation, asserting that candidate Edmundo Gonzalez had a clear victory over Maduro based on voting records. In Caracas, Machado and other opposition leaders encouraged peaceful protests against what they called electoral fraud. Crowds of protesters, waving Venezuelan flags, chanted, “We are not afraid!”
However, the protests quickly escalated into violent acts of vandalism. Prosecutor General Tarek Saab reported that opposition protesters committed acts of vandalism and arson at the ruling United Socialist Party's headquarters, endangering lives and causing significant property damage. Law enforcement confiscated explosives and weapons from some detainees, highlighting the severity of the violence. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez stated that over 20 servicemen were injured during the riots.
Critics argue that the opposition's actions have crossed the line from peaceful protest to dangerous and destructive behavior, undermining their call for democratic integrity. The violent turn of events has drawn condemnation from various quarters, emphasizing the need for non-violent methods of expressing political dissent.
Following the July 28 election, the National Electoral Council announced that with 80% of ballots counted, Maduro received 51.2% of the vote, while his main opponent, Edmundo Gonzalez, received 44.2%. The Venezuelan Foreign Ministry announced the recall of its diplomatic missions from several countries, accusing them of interfering in Venezuela's domestic affairs. The ministry emphasized Venezuela's right to self-determination and warned against activities threatening peaceful co-existence.
As Venezuela grapples with this crisis, both the government and the opposition are urged to seek dialogue and resolution without resorting to violence, ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.
