Venezuelans headed to the polls for legislative and regional elections, but a low turnout fueled by disillusionment and frustration marred the process. Venezuela‘s elections, which are the first to allow broad voter participation since last year’s disputed presidential vote, have been shadowed by a heightened government crackdown and opposition leaders’ calls for a boycott.
The disputed presidential election, where President Nicolas Maduro claimed victory despite contradictory evidence, has had a lasting impact on the country’s electoral process. Many Venezuelans have lost faith in the system, with some expressing their disappointment openly. “I am not going to vote after they stole the elections last year. For what? I don’t want to be disappointed again,” said Caracas resident Paula Aranguren.
The opposition views voter participation as legitimizing Maduro’s claim to power and his government’s repressive apparatus. After the presidential election, 25 people were reportedly killed, and over 2,000 detained, including protesters, poll workers, and minors, to quash dissent. The government also issued arrest warrants against opposition leaders on charges ranging from conspiracy to falsifying records.
Despite these risks, some opposition leaders have continued to campaign as a form of resistance against the government. Henrique Capriles, a former opposition presidential candidate running for a seat in the National Assembly, emphasized the importance of voting in the democratic process. “History is full of evidence that voting is an instrument towards democracy… Voting is what we have left to manifest our rejection of Maduro and his government,” Capriles told Newsmen.
The ruling party, however, is confident of an overwhelming victory, consistent with previous regional elections. Maduro has accused the opposition of attempting to destabilize the country, claiming that “the death throes of fascism have tried to bring in mercenaries” to launch violent attacks.
A nationwide poll conducted by the Venezuela-based research firm Delphos showed only 15.9% of voters expressed a high probability of voting. Of those, 74.2% said they would vote for the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela and its allies. Political analysts believe the chances of free and fair elections are practically nonexistent due to low voter turnout, lack of understanding of candidates, and absence of international observers.
Some voters cast ballots out of fear of losing government jobs or state-controlled benefits. “Most of my friends aren’t going to vote, not even a blank vote,” said state employee Miguel Otero, 69. “But we must comply. We have to send the photo [showing] I’m here at the polling station now.”