Opposition holds symbolic vote in Venezuela
Venezuela’s opposition has run a symbolic, general vote aimed at assessing overall public sentiments toward constitutional reforms proposed by the government.
The opposition-organized “plebiscite” was held in 2,000 polling stations across Venezuela and in 80 countries for Venezuelans abroad on Sunday, some two weeks ahead of an official vote to elect a body to rewrite the constitution.
The supporters of President Nicolas Maduro had boycotted the unofficial vote.
Maduro, however, had earlier advised all citizens to take part in it.
“I call on all Venezuelans to participate peacefully in political events tomorrow, with respect for others’ ideas, with no incidents. Peace is what I ask,” he said on Saturday.
Maduro then pointed out that the opposition was supported by “imperialist” foreign powers, with an intention to topple his government.
Meanwhile, the opposition has boycotted the government-planned vote to elect a Constituent Assembly on July 30. The opposition accuses Maduro of seeking to accumulate powers by rewriting the constitution and other steps.
Rising tensions among Venezuela’s opposing forces have given rise to international concerns. The Catholic Church and the United Nations (UN) have called on both sides to de-escalate the tensions and hold dialog to resolve differences.
Venezuela, Russia sign new energy, defense deals
New ‘terror’ attack disrupts 25% of Venezuela’s power system: Minister
President Maduro: Netanyahu a 'monster’ created by EU, US
VIDEO | Press TV's news headlines
VIDEO | Nurses protest against Israeli genocide at UN HQ
VIDEO | France-Israel football row
VIDEO | Archbishop of Canterbury quits over handling of abuse by pedo volunteer John Smyth
Hezbollah hits Tel Aviv with ballistic missiles; debuts tactical rocket in anti-Israeli struggle
VIDEO | Iraqi resistance fighters strike ‘vital targets’ across occupied territories
VIDEO | Hezbollah leader to fighters: You are the pride shaking foundations of Zionism
Iran not worried that Trump may toughen oil sanctions: Minister
PressTV NEWSLETTER
now
This makes it easy to access the Press TV website
