Polls are closing in Venezuela’s presidential election as Nicolás Maduro seeks a third term in office. Mr Maduro faces a strong challenge from Edmundo González, backed by opposition parties. Polls suggest González leads, but concerns remain about electoral tampering. The PSUV party has been in power for 25 years, overseeing an economic collapse and mass emigration.
González has promised to lure back emigrants if elected, but Maduro has threatened to win “by hook or by crook”. The election is overseen by a National Electoral Council dominated by government loyalists. Venezuela’s oil output downturn could affect global prices if US sanctions are lifted.
Voting is electronic, but paper receipts also record votes. Opposition parties monitor these tallies for transparency. The outcome of the election will have significant implications for Venezuela’s future direction.
\
[ad_2]
Source link