Venezuela’s opposition marches to demand regional elections

CARACAS, Venezuela – Thousands of opponents of President Nicolas Maduro are marching in Venezuela’s capital to demand authorities set a date for overdue regional elections.

Monday’s march coincides with the anniversary of the return of democracy following the 1958 overthrow of dictator Marcos Perez Jimenez.

The opposition says Venezuela’s democracy is once again at risk due to the government’s refusal to allow a recall referendum against Maduro to go forward and the refusal to schedule gubernatorial elections that should’ve taken place last year.

A Vatican-sponsored effort to mediate dialogue between the two sides and help Venezuela overcome a severe economic crisis appears have reached a standstill. In addition to elections, the opposition is demanding Maduro’s government free some 100 jailed activists.

Pro-government supporters are also marching Monday.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.