Reuters: Dispute over Venezuela vote could spark more unrest, sanctions
CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuela’s opposition refused on Monday to recognize a surprise win for the ruling socialists in weekend gubernatorial elections, raising the prospect of new protests and foreign sanctions against President Nicolas Maduro’s government.
Maduro’s candidates took 17 governorships, versus five for the opposition, in Sunday’s nationwide poll, according to the pro-government electoral board.
The socialists’ strong showing came despite devastating food shortages, triple-digit inflation, and a collapsing currency. Polls had suggested the opposition would easily win a majority.
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WNU Editor: This result will only mean the following .... hyper-inflation will continue, 70% of the country will go hungry to bed hungry tonight, and Venezuela's debt payment obligations will not be met in the coming months thereby making a horrible situation even worse.
More News On Venezuela's Regional Elections
Venezuelan socialists claim victory as opposition cries foul -- AP
U.S. condemns Venezuelan elections as neither free nor fair -- Reuters
Venezuela vote dispute increases threat of new foreign sanctions -- Reuters
Venezuela elections dogged by fraud claims -- Financial Times
Venezuela Opposition Has Few Options After Vote Many Call Fraudulent -- Wall Street Journal
Venezuela: Mixed reaction online after election results -- Al Jazeera
In Venezuela, opposition took risk that might not pay off -- Washington Post