As Venezuela’s election nears, opposition figures face Maduro’s repression

Venezuela's opposition, led by Maria Corina Machado of Vente Venezuela, faces repression from Maduro's government as they campaign for Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia. Machado's team, including campaign staffer Oliver Lopez Cano, faces obstacles like blocked roads, detained staffers, and vandalized vehicles.

Critics accuse Maduro of targeting low-level opposition workers, small business owners, and imprisoned activist Aldo Roso Vargas of Voluntad Popular. Maduro warns of 'bloodbath' if opposition wins, raising fears of increased repression.

Machado receives unexpected support from former government supporters, including motorcycle groups. Maduro's predecessor and mentor, Hugo Chavez, is referenced.

The Plaza Real Grill in Tachira state, owned by the family of former governor Cesar Perez Vivas, was shut down by authorities. Human rights organization Foro Penal, co-founded by Gonzalo Himiob Santome, has documented 149 cases of politically motivated arbitrary detention.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has warned Maduro against anti-democratic measures.