(Gray News) – Government and opposition forces are struggling for political power in Venezuela, a country hamstrung by economic chaos and widespread shortages.
Millions can’t afford the basics in life, and the violence is spreading to the borders where aid shipments have been blocked.
As the crisis in the South American nation deepens, here are some things you’ll need to know about Venezuela’s political situation.
Who’s president?
It seems like a simple question, but two men have staked a claim.
President Nicolas Maduro was sworn in to a second six-year term in office in early January.
Just a couple of weeks later, opposition leader Juan Guaido declared himself acting president, directly challenging Maduro.
As you might expect, Maduro is in no mood to give up the gig.
Why is there a dispute?
Maduro was first elected to office in 2013 after the death of Hugo Chavez. It was a narrow victory, less than 2 percentage points.
The Venezuelan economy turned south during his first term and his re-election bid last year turned controversial.
Many opposition candidates were barred from running, while others were jailed or fled their homeland.
When Maduro won the ballot, the nation’s opposition-controlled National Assembly refused to recognize the election results, calling the election unfair and the presidency vacant.
Under Venezuela’s constitution, the head of the National Assembly takes over as acting president in such cases.
…
