The opposition leader in Venezuela is urging Nicolás Maduro to accept his inevitable exit from power, following protests against his disputed claim to a third term victory. María Corina Machado, a key figure in the opposition, criticized Maduro’s repressive rule and called for his resignation. She insisted that her candidate, Edmundo González, had actually won the election with over 6.2 million votes compared to Maduro’s 2.7 million.
Protests erupted across Venezuela, with even traditionally pro-Maduro areas joining the dissent. Residents condemned the election as a fraud, echoing claims of a rigged outcome. Social media buzzed with reports of opposition marches, clashes with security forces, and acts of civil disobedience including the tearing down of Chávez statues.
As tensions escalate, supporters and opponents of Maduro are gearing up for further demonstrations. The political landscape in Venezuela remains turbulent and uncertain as the battle for power intensifies.