Venezuela on Edge: Disputed Election Sparks Nationwide Protests

Protests are expected in Venezuela after a controversial election victory by President Nicolas Maduro, with the opposition claiming their candidate won. Electoral authorities announced Maduro's victory with 51% of the vote, while opposition data suggests Edmundo Gonzalez secured a significant lead. Clashes have erupted, and international calls for a full vote tabulation continue.

Nationwide protests are set to unfold in Venezuela following President Nicolas Maduro's contentious election victory, as the opposition claims their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, won by a large margin. The electoral authorities declared Maduro the winner with 51% of the vote, extending his rule. However, opposition figures insist that 73% of the voting tallies show Gonzalez won by more than double the votes of Maduro.

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has called for supporters to march to defend what they believe to be the true result, emphasizing the importance of each vote while the government supporters are also preparing counter-demonstrations. Despite calls for peace from both sides, sporadic clashes have already occurred, resulting in casualties and heightened tensions.

The international community, including the United States and members of the Organization of American States, are advocating for a full and transparent vote counting process. As unrest grows, the legitimacy of Maduro's presidency and the future of Venezuela's political stability hang in the balance.

(With inputs from agencies.)