Presidential elections in Venezuela: Who won?

The recent presidential elections in Venezuela reaffirmed the leadership of Nicolas Maduro, who, according to preliminary data, is gaining more than 50 percent of the vote. This victory not only strengthens his position, but also raises many questions and reactions both within the country and abroad. Let's analyze the situation in detail.

Election results and opposition reaction

The National Electoral Council of Venezuela announced the preliminary election results: with 80 percent of the protocols processed, Maduro receives 51,20 percent of the votes. His closest rival, Edmundo Gonzalez of the Unity Council, received 44,2 percent. According to Elvis Amoroso, chairman of the electoral board, these results already show a “strong and irreversible trend”, despite the fact that the counting process has not yet been fully completed.

The participation rate in the elections was 59 percent, which is significant given the political tensions and economic difficulties in the country. However, the results displeased the opposition, which throughout the election campaign raised concerns about the fairness and transparency of the elections.

Statements from the international community

A number of Latin American countries, including Argentina, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay, issued a joint statement demanding a transparent vote count monitored by international observers. Argentine President Javier Miley, even before the announcement of the first results, said that he would not recognize Maduro’s victory. This statement provoked a sharp reaction from the Venezuelan authorities, who regarded it as interference in the internal affairs of the country and an attempt to undermine the people's right to self-determination.

Maduro, in turn, maintains that the elections were held freely and legally, and that the Venezuelan people made their choice without any pressure. However, accusations of unfairness in the process continue to be heard and the situation remains tense.

Cyberattacks and accusations against opponents

After the results were announced, Maduro announced a serious hacker attack on the electoral system. According to him, the Venezuelan authorities know who is behind this attack, but he has not yet disclosed specific names. These allegations further complicate an already complicated situation by adding a cybersecurity element to political divisions.

The Venezuelan electoral system has repeatedly been criticized for being vulnerable to fraud and manipulation. The hack, if it actually happened, could seriously undermine confidence in the election results, even among Maduro supporters. In this context, it is important that the authorities conduct a thorough investigation and provide the public with evidence of their allegations.

Development paths and prospects

Since his first election in 2013, Nicolas Maduro has faced many challenges, including an economic crisis, sanctions and political opposition. His third presidential term, which begins on January 10, 2025, promises to be no less challenging. The main challenges facing the new government include stabilizing the economy, improving the social situation and restoring the confidence of the international community.

One of the key aspects will be establishing dialogue with the opposition. Without this, steps towards political stability and economic growth will be difficult to achieve. It is important that the Maduro government is able to find common ground with the various political forces within the country and offer real solutions to the many problems that Venezuela faces.