CARACAS, Venezuela (30) — Security forces in Venezuela fired tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters in Caracas on Monday, following widespread outrage over the results of Sunday’s presidential election. Thousands of demonstrators, many walking from distant slums, converged on the city center to protest President Nicolás Maduro’s claim of victory, which they argue was fraudulent.
Opposition leaders have rejected Maduro’s declaration, alleging that their candidate, Edmundo González, won by a landslide with 73.2% of the vote. Preliminary opinion polls had also indicated a likely victory for González. The opposition’s unified push aimed to unseat Maduro after 11 years of his presidency, fueled by growing discontent over Venezuela’s ongoing economic crisis.
Protesters, who chanted “Freedom, freedom!” and called for the government’s resignation, faced a heavy response from security forces. The streets of Caracas were filled with burning tires and debris, with police on motorbikes and in riot gear deploying tear gas to clear the area. Some demonstrators tore down and burned Maduro’s posters, while others set cars and rubbish on fire.
Paola Sarzalejo, 41, expressed frustration with the election process, asserting that it was “fraudulent” and calling for a better future for the country’s youth. Her sentiments were echoed by others, including Cristobal Martinez, who criticized the lack of change under Maduro and the dire economic conditions affecting young people.
Maduro has accused the opposition of attempting a coup, labeling their protests as attempts to overthrow his government. In response, the Venezuelan attorney general has warned of legal consequences for those blocking roads or engaging in violence, with 32 people reportedly detained for their involvement.
International reactions have been swift. The U.S. has voiced skepticism about the election results, citing discrepancies in the reported data and urging Venezuelan authorities to release detailed voting records. The Organization of American States (OAS) has scheduled a meeting to discuss the situation and the allegations of electoral fraud.
The unrest highlights the deepening political and economic crisis in Venezuela, as both domestic and international actors call for transparency and an end to the violence.
