Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has been declared the winner of the country’s presidential election held on May 26, 2025. The election was marked by low turnout and a boycott from the country’s main opposition parties.

The National Electoral Council (CNE) reported that voter turnout was under 47 percent. The main opposition coalition chose not to participate, citing unfair conditions and the disqualification of key opposition candidates, including María Corina Machado.

In a televised speech following the announcement of results, Maduro called the election a victory for peace and sovereignty. He thanked his supporters and said the vote was proof of Venezuela’s resistance against foreign interference.

Opposition leaders, meanwhile, rejected the result, calling the vote illegitimate. They said the election lacked credibility due to widespread irregularities and government control over electoral institutions.

International responses were divided. The United States, the European Union, and several Latin American countries said they did not recognize the election as legitimate. The Organization of American States (OAS) stated that the vote did not meet democratic standards. Countries such as Russia, Iran, and Cuba congratulated Maduro and expressed support for his continued leadership.

The election took place amid an ongoing economic and humanitarian crisis. Venezuela continues to experience high inflation, shortages of basic goods, and a deteriorating healthcare system. More than 7 million people have left the country in recent years, according to international agencies.

No incidents of major violence were reported on election day. Maduro is now expected to begin a new six-year term.

It is unclear how the opposition plans to proceed following the election. Political analysts expect continued international pressure on Maduro’s government, as well as possible new sanctions from countries that rejected the election outcome.

Source; Al Jazeera