Venezuela’s election: Can Maduro pass his greatest test? Here’s everything you need to know

On Sunday, Venezuela will hold a consequential election with President Maduro seeking a third term against opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia. Maduro is trailing in polls, with voters expressing exhaustion over economic crisis and political repression. Critics fear Maduro may not accept defeat if he loses. The election takes place on July 28, with Gonzalez leading in polls by a wide margin. Venezuela’s economy has been in dire straits, leading to hyperinflation and mass displacement. More than 7.7 million people have left the country since 2014. Maduro’s government has been accused of suppressing opposition figures and stifling fair elections. The opposition coalition aims to end Maduro’s rule and improve relations with the West. The government has barred popular opposition figures from running and critics question the fairness of the election process. Despite widespread condemnation, faith in the legitimacy of Venezuelan elections has plummeted. There are concerns over how Maduro will react if he loses, with fears of unrest or a refusal to step down. Western countries, particularly the US, have criticized Maduro’s government’s actions, but there are signs of US willingness to engage with Venezuela if there is a change in leadership. The outcome of the election will have significant implications for the future of Venezuela and its people.

Source
Photo credit www.aljazeera.com