Maduro secures third term
Date
7/30/2024 5:43:29 AM
(MENAFN) Nicolas Maduro has been declared the winner of Venezuela's presidential election, earning a third consecutive term in office, according to official results released by the National Electoral Council (CNE). The announcement came shortly after midnight on Sunday, revealing that with 80percent of ballots counted, Maduro had achieved over 51percent of the vote. His main opponent, Edmundo Gonzales, secured approximately 44percent of the vote.
In his victory speech delivered to supporters in Caracas, Maduro framed his win as a "triumph of peace and stability" for Venezuela. The result has been met with substantial controversy and resistance from the opposition. Gonzales has disputed the election outcome, alleging that the electoral process was marred by violations. Opposition leader Marina Corina Machado, barred from running due to corruption charges, also rejected the results, asserting that "we won and the whole world knows it."
Following the election, Venezuela’s electoral authority, perceived by the opposition as biased towards the ruling party, has yet to release detailed results from the 30,000 polling stations across the country. Maduro, 61, expressed gratitude to his supporters and dismissed opposition claims of fraud as routine complaints.
The election results have elicited mixed reactions from the international community. Russian President Vladimir Putin was among the first to extend congratulations to Maduro, emphasizing the strategic importance of the Russia-Venezuela relationship. Putin expressed optimism that Maduro will continue to advance bilateral cooperation across various sectors and assured him of a warm welcome in Russia.
China also offered congratulations to Maduro, with Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lin Jian commending Venezuela for successfully conducting its presidential election. Lin highlighted China's approval of the election process and reaffirmed support for Venezuela's political stability.
This election result underscores the ongoing tensions within Venezuela and the broader geopolitical implications of its leadership. As the nation navigates its political landscape, the international community's responses reflect the strategic interests and diplomatic considerations influencing global relations with Caracas.
MENAFN30072024000045015687ID1108497536
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.