Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was sworn in for a third term, facing protests and claims of electoral fraud. Despite opposition claims that their candidate won, Maduro held onto power amidst tight security, accusing external powers of interference. International bodies, including the European Union and the US, imposed sanctions on top Venezuelan officials involved in the election. Maduro’s opponents, including Maria Corina Machado, faced repression, leading to calls for their release by world leaders. Election results lacked transparency, sparking outrage and protests that were met with brutal force from the government. The opposition disputed the results, alleging fraud and demanding the inauguration of their candidate, Edmundo González, who now lives in exile. González’s return to Venezuela was uncertain, as his family accused the government of kidnapping. Maduro’s supporters celebrated his inauguration, while international condemnation persisted over the lack of democracy and human rights abuses in Venezuela. The controversy surrounding Maduro’s re-election highlights the oppressive tactics used by his regime to maintain power, as well as the ongoing struggle for freedom and democracy in the country.
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