Venezuelan Election Sparks Controversy Amid Allegations of Fraud and Protest

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado claims victory in the recent election, stating 73.2% of voting tallies support the opposition. Despite this, the national electoral authority declared incumbent President Nicolas Maduro as the winner. Independent exit polls and foreign observers question the results, calling for transparency.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado announced on Monday that the opposition holds 73.2% of the voting tallies from Sunday's election, signaling an opposition victory. However, the national electoral authority declared incumbent President Nicolas Maduro the winner, extending socialist rule.

Independent pollsters and foreign observers questioned the results, urging transparency in vote tallying. The opposition's records show significant support for their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, contrary to official numbers favoring Maduro. Some voting tallies were reportedly withheld or manipulated.

Protests erupted nationwide, resulting in violence and casualties. The U.S. and other countries called for full vote disclosure. Maduro, disputing claims of irregularities, accused agitators of inciting violence. The controversy underscores escalating tensions and calls for democratic reform in Venezuela.

(With inputs from agencies.)