Venezuelan Opposition Leader Machado Challenges Disputed Election

Maria Corina Machado, a Venezuelan opposition leader, claimed President Nicolas Maduro has entrenched himself with the top military leaders to stay in power following a disputed election. The electoral authority declared Maduro's victory, but the opposition argues Edmundo Gonzalez won. Machado urges protests and claims Maduro's options have dwindled.

Maria Corina Machado, a prominent Venezuelan opposition leader, accused President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday of consolidating his power by aligning with the nation's top military officials after last month's contested election.

According to the electoral authority, the CNE, which is perceived as pro-Maduro, he secured reelection in the July 28 vote. The opposition, however, argues that their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, is the rightful winner. Notably, the CNE has not provided a detailed vote count, and its website has been inactive since the early hours of July 29.

Speaking at a virtual press conference with international media from Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, Machado called for nationwide protests to compel Maduro to acknowledge the alleged true election outcome. Machado is under investigation for purportedly inciting civil disobedience among the police and military. Meanwhile, security forces have arrested over 2,400 individuals linked to post-election unrest, creating a climate of fear.

(With inputs from agencies.)