Venezuelans have taken to the streets in protest after President Nicolas Maduro was declared the winner of an election marred by fraud allegations from the opposition. Demonstrations have spread across the country, with protesters tearing down statues, posters, and clashing with police and pro-Maduro paramilitary groups. The National Electoral Council confirmed Maduro’s re-election, but opposition leaders claim to have evidence of a victory for presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez. Maduro has accused the opposition of attempting a coup d’etat, leading to escalating tensions in the country. Election observers and foreign leaders have called for transparency and the release of detailed results from the election. Millions of Venezuelans are convinced of massive fraud, with some expressing disappointment and anger over the election results. In response, nine Latin American countries have called for an emergency meeting of the Organization of American States, with Panama putting diplomatic relations with Venezuela on hold until a full review is conducted. Left-wing governments in the region have also called for impartial verification of the results and total transparency in the election process. As the political crisis continues to unfold, Venezuelans are left feeling cheated and uncertain about the future of their country.
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