Protests going on across Venezuela over election dispute

Protesters have taken to the streets in various parts of Venezuela, expressing their opposition to Nicolas Maduro's victory in the recent presidential election, which has been marred by controversy.

María Corina Machado, the opposition leader, stood alongside a massive crowd of protesters in Caracas, the capital, delivering a powerful message of courage and resilience.

Ms. Machado, who had been hiding following accusations of insurrection, emphasized the power of the people's voice and their resounding message.

Police and the army were out in full force as supporters of Mr Maduro also took to the streets in solidarity.

"We will not abandon the streets," Ms. Machado stated as she addressed the protesters, who fervently waved their election records as evidence of their triumph.

Ms Machado, who was disqualified from participating in the election, urged for widespread demonstrations to increase the pressure on Mr Maduro to acknowledge defeat.

Several protesters displayed unwavering determination to continue their activities.

"The government in question has been accused of criminal activities and is allegedly determined to maintain its hold on power." "I smell freedom; I have nothing to fear," stated Adriana Calzadilla, as the AFP news agency quoted.

"I hope that Maduro will acknowledge his defeat and peacefully transfer power," expressed medical student Jose Berbin in an interview.

"In my analysis, it is likely that the authoritarian regime will intensify its grip on power. We must unite in solidarity, demonstrating that the forces of righteousness prevail."

In a contentious election, Mr Maduro maintains that he emerged victorious for a third consecutive six-year term. However, the opposition has countered his claims by presenting tallies that purportedly demonstrate their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, winning significantly.

In a statement from an undisclosed location, Mr. Gonzalez expressed the need for a smooth and organized transition.

During his rival rally, Mr. Maduro derided Mr. Gonzalez, suggesting he was entirely out of touch with reality.

Despite calls for transparency, the electoral commission, which is under the control of Mr Maduro's allies, has declined to provide a comprehensive breakdown of the results. However, they have officially announced that he secured victory with 52% of the vote. According to independent observers, there were concerns about the lack of transparency.

Following the election, there has been a surge in anti-government protests, resulting in the arrest of numerous individuals by the security forces, who continue to demonstrate their allegiance to President Maduro.

As per the Venezuelan government, over 2,400 individuals have been apprehended since 29 July, the day the contested election outcome was declared.

The United Nations has strongly condemned the state's response to street protests and criticism on social media, describing it as "fierce repression."

Protests mirroring these demonstrations have occurred in various cities worldwide, from Australia to Spain and even the United Kingdom, Canada, Colombia, Mexico, and Argentina.

Several countries, including the European Union, the United States, and various nations in Latin America, have declined to acknowledge the outcome.