Overview

• Voters in Venezuela are electing lawmakers, governors, and regional officials in a heavily contested election criticized for lacking fairness and transparency.
• The main opposition, led by Maria Corina Machado, has called for a boycott, labeling the vote a 'parody' aimed at legitimizing President Nicolas Maduro's rule.
• A smaller opposition faction, led by Henrique Capriles, has rejected the boycott and urged participation as an act of resistance against the government.
• Recent government crackdowns included the arrest of prominent opposition leader Juan Pablo Guanipa, accused of leading a 'terrorist network' to disrupt the election.
• Polling data suggests only 15.9% of voters are likely to participate, with the ruling PSUV expected to secure a significant majority.