Incumbent Nicolas Maduro emerged victorious in Venezuela's presidential election, securing 51.2% of the vote for a third six-year term, according to election authorities. His main rival, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, garnered 44.2% but the opposition expressed intentions to challenge the outcome.

The electoral commission, perceived as pro-Maduro, did not promptly disclose detailed voting station results. In contrast, opposition figures claimed their collected figures favored Gonzalez over Maduro.

Maduro hailed his re-election as a testament to peace and stability while vowing transparent electoral processes. The 61-year-old leader first assumed power in 2013 after the passing of his predecessor, Hugo Chavez.

Despite criticism for alleged suppression of dissent and failure to mitigate economic woes prompting mass emigration, Maduro's re-election contention was met with strong opposition vows to resolve the country's financial crisis.

Notably, popular opposition leader Maria Corina Machado's exclusion led to Gonzalez's candidacy. Amid allegations of irregularities, both sides claimed victory, prompting concerns over a disputed electoral outcome.

‘Violation’

Last year's accord between the government and opposition paved the way for Sunday's polls, resulting in temporary US sanctions relief. However, doubts over Maduro's legitimacy persisted following previous contested elections.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed reservations over the declared outcome, urging fair and transparent vote counting. Similar skepticism arose from the EU and regional leaders, casting doubts on the electoral transparency and results' accuracy.

Analysts and international observers questioned the official tallies, aligning with opposition claims. Amid calls for documentation of alleged fraud, regional leaders denounced the electoral process, with some suggesting a review of the contested results.

While Maduro obtained support from select nations, broader skepticism persists over the electoral outcome, emphasizing the need for transparency and thorough scrutiny of the voting process.