Maduro Declares Chavismo Victorious in Venezuelan Regional Elections

Caracas, Venezuela - Nicolás Maduro, President of Venezuela, declared Chavismo's resounding victory in the recent regional elections. The ruling party secured wins in 23 out of 24 regions, a triumph Maduro described as demonstrating the movement's enduring strength. "After blockades, criminal sanctions, fascism and violence," Maduro stated in a celebratory address, "we have shown the power of Chavismo." The National Electoral Council (CNE) reported a voter turnout of 42.63%. This victory is particularly significant given the international sanctions and internal challenges facing the government. Maduro's emphasis on the wins in Zulia and the "recovery" of Barinas, Hugo Chávez's birthplace, underscores the symbolic importance of these results for the Chavista movement. The election results highlight the continued political influence of Chavismo in Venezuela despite ongoing challenges.