The National Electoral Council of Venezuela confirmed the victory of current President Nicolas Maduro in the presidential elections after 96.87 percent of the votes were counted, said the chairman of the Council, Elvis Amoroso.
“Candidate Nicolas Maduro received 6,408,855 votes, or 51.95 percent. Edmundo Gonzales received 5,326,104 votes, or 43.18 percent,” Amoroso said at the press conference.
The elections in Venezuela were held on Sunday, July 28. The turnout was 59.97 percent, TASS reminds.
Maduro has been confirmed as the winner of Venezuela’s presidential election, securing another term in office amid controversy and widespread allegations of electoral fraud.
The National Electoral Council (CNE) announced Maduro’s victory, stating that he received 56% of the vote, while his main opponent, Henrique Capriles, garnered 41%. The remaining votes were split among minor candidates. This outcome extends Maduro’s rule, which began in 2013 following the death of his predecessor, Hugo Chávez.
In a televised address, Maduro thanked his supporters and vowed to continue his socialist policies aimed at stabilizing Venezuela’s economy and improving living standards. “This victory belongs to the Venezuelan people,” Maduro declared. “We will continue our fight for independence, sovereignty, and prosperity.”
However, the election has been marred by accusations of irregularities and a lack of transparency. Opposition leaders and international observers have raised concerns about voter intimidation, manipulation of voter rolls, and restrictions on media coverage. Capriles, speaking at a press conference, refused to concede, labeling the election a “sham” and calling for mass protests. “The Venezuelan people deserve a fair and free election. We will not recognize these fraudulent results,” Capriles asserted.
The United States and several European Union countries have also expressed skepticism about the legitimacy of the election. In a joint statement, they urged the Venezuelan government to address the allegations of fraud and engage in meaningful dialogue with the opposition.
Despite the controversy, Maduro’s supporters celebrated the victory in the streets of Caracas, waving flags and chanting slogans in support of the president. “Maduro is our leader, and we stand with him,” said Maria Gonzalez, a longtime supporter. “He has always fought for the poor and marginalized, and we believe in his vision for Venezuela.”
The outcome of this election is expected to have significant implications for Venezuela’s future, as the country continues to grapple with severe economic challenges, including hyperinflation, food and medicine shortages, and a mass exodus of citizens seeking better opportunities abroad.
Maduro’s government has promised to focus on economic reforms and strengthening social programs to address these issues. However, the opposition’s rejection of the results sets the stage for potential political unrest and further instability in the nation.
Photo: Daily Post
