Opposition candidate Edmundo González announced that he has proof showing he won Venezuela’s disputed election, where incumbent President Nicolás Maduro was declared the winner by electoral authorities. González and Maria Corina Machado stated they have over 70% of tally sheets, demonstrating González’s victory. Despite peaceful protests across the country, the National Electoral Council confirmed Maduro’s third term. González called on supporters to remain calm and celebrate the results peacefully.
Thousands demonstrated against Maduro’s victory, with some clashes between protesters and police reported in Caracas. The election, deemed peaceful at first, raised hopes for change in Venezuela’s struggling economy and political landscape. Maduro accused the opposition of attempting a coup and declared the results legitimate.
The opposition obtained tally sheets showing González with over 6.2 million votes compared to Maduro’s 2.7 million. The electoral system, controlled by Maduro’s party, has faced scrutiny for lack of transparency. International observers and the EU urged the release of the tallies.
Foreign governments, including the US and EU, refrained from recognizing the election results. Maduro’s government is recalling diplomatic personnel from several countries in response to international criticism.
González, an unknown figure until chosen as a last-minute replacement for Machado, represents a challenge to Maduro’s rule. The election results have sparked protests and renewed calls for change in Venezuela’s political landscape.
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