Venezuela's Contentious Presidential Election: Maduro Declared Winner Amid Opposition Disputes

Nicolás Maduro was declared the winner of Venezuela's presidential election, securing 51% of the vote against opposition candidate Edmundo González. The election results, which are yet to be fully verified, have sparked controversy and claims of irregularities. González's camp alleges early counts from voting centres showed him leading, and calls for transparency continue.

Nicolás Maduro has been declared victorious in Venezuela's presidential election, securing 51% of the vote according to the National Electoral Council. This declaration comes as opposition leader Edmundo González contests the credibility of the results, pointing to tally discrepancies from various voting centres.

The opposition claims that their internal counts at 30% of voting locations showed González leading significantly. However, the officially controlled Electoral Council has delayed releasing tallies, complicating efforts to verify the results independently.

Maduro, seeking a third term, faced strong opposition from González, a political newcomer. Amidst controversy and claims of manipulation, the political future of Venezuela remains highly uncertain.

(With inputs from agencies.)