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Nicolas Maduro, the Vice President of Venezuela, has officially been elected for Venezuela’s new President. When Maduro became Vice President, it became evident that he would be Chavez’s successor; however, shortly after his victory was announced, Maduro’s opponent, Henrique Capriles, accused Maduro of cheating. He called for a recount of the votes because there was evidence against Maduro of corruption.
After making a request to the National Electoral Council, Capriles addressed his supporters saying, “All we’re asking is that our rights be respected…and that every single vote be counted, every little piece of paper,” but the government is refusing to recount the ballots and calls the election a fair win. The U.S. government has made it clear that they wish to call a recount, but at the moment, supporters of Maduro are celebrating. Supporters of Capriles are protesting in the streets. Several protests have turned violent and the police have had to get involved. After hearing the news of his opponent’s accusations of swaying the vote, Maduro made a statement that the voting was completely legal and fair.
Maduro has been filling in as President since Chavez’s death. Supporters of Chavez are hoping that Maduro will carry on the legacy of creating a one-class society. Despite the fact that Venezuela is very separate in social classes, Maduro’s goal is to fix the separation. Maduro will officially be inaugurated Friday, April 19, 2013.
