Venezuelans Decide the Fate of Socialist Movement in Pivotal Election

Maduro Faces Tight Race as Country Votes

1830H GMT, 23rd July 2024

Millions of Venezuelans turned out to vote on Sunday in an election that will decide the fate of the socialist movement that has governed the oil-rich nation for over two decades. President Nicolas Maduro, who has held power since 2013, is facing a tight race against opposition leader Henrique Capriles.

The election is seen as a referendum on Maduro's leadership amid an economic crisis that has caused widespread poverty and shortages. Maduro has promised to continue the socialist policies of his predecessor, Hugo Chavez, while Capriles has vowed to restore economic stability and implement democratic reforms.