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Maduro Sworn In Before Assembly for Third Term Until 2031 Amid Fraud Claims

Jan 10, 2025, 03:01 PM

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was sworn in before the National Assembly on Friday for a third six-year term, extending his rule until 2031, despite widespread accusations of electoral fraud and international condemnation. The opposition, led by Edmundo González, who claims to have won the July 28, 2024 presidential election, has presented credible evidence of vote rigging and threatened to hold a rival inauguration in Caracas. Maduro proceeded with the ceremony without releasing the electoral records that would verify his victory. "I swear that this new presidential term will be a term of peace," Maduro declared during the inauguration. Protests erupted across the country, with thousands demonstrating on the eve of the ceremony. While facing criticism both domestically and internationally, Maduro retains the support of the military and key institutions in Venezuela.