Reports from international electoral monitoring bodies or credible news agencies

Nicolás Maduro Sworn In for Third Term Amidst Controversy; Opposition Led by Edmundo González Urrutia Protests

Jan 10, 2025, 09:35 AM

Nicolás Maduro was sworn in for his third term as President of Venezuela on Friday, amidst widespread international and domestic criticism. The ceremony took place at the National Assembly in Caracas, where Maduro has been in power since 2013. His re-election in July 2024, which saw him garner 51.20% of the votes, has been contested by the opposition, led by Edmundo González Urrutia, who claims to have won the election. The opposition alleges electoral fraud due to the lack of transparency in the voting process and the absence of independent audits. Despite these controversies, Maduro's inauguration was attended by representatives from over 20 countries, including Russia, China, Cuba, and Bolivia, signaling their support. In contrast, several Latin American nations have not recognized the election results and have severed diplomatic ties with Caracas. The event follows a day of opposition protests, which included a brief detention of opposition leader María Corina Machado, an incident the government denied. Maduro has promised to deepen the 'Popular Power' initiative and announced plans for a constitutional reform through a national and international commission.