Opposition supporters in Venezuela have been gathering to protest against President Nicolas Maduro's disputed victory in the recent presidential election. Led by opposition figure María Corina Machado, who had been in hiding due to accusations of insurrection, the protesters are demanding that Maduro concede defeat, arguing that their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, actually won by a significant margin.
The electoral commission, which is controlled by Maduro's allies, claimed that Maduro won 52% of the vote, but independent observers have criticized the process for lacking transparency. The opposition has released its own tallies, asserting that Gonzalez was the true victor.
Amid the protests, Maduro's government has arrested thousands of people, leading to international condemnation. The United Nations and various countries, including members of the European Union and the United States, have refused to recognize the election results, citing concerns about the fairness and legitimacy of the process.
Demonstrations have not only taken place within Venezuela but have also spread to cities worldwide, including in Australia, Spain, the UK, Canada, Colombia, Mexico, and Argentina. The situation remains tense, with the opposition calling for continued pressure on Maduro's government.
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