Venezuelan president accuses opposition of plotting coup ahead of election

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has accused opposition figures Edmundo Gonzalez and Enrique Marquez of orchestrating a coup d'état as the country prepares for its upcoming presidential election on July 28.

Maduro, speaking on Venezolana de Televisión, labeled Gonzalez and Marquez as "puppets of the oligarchy" for their refusal to sign a pact recognizing the election results.

Maduro alleged that the opposition's strategy involves denouncing electoral fraud and inciting street protests and violence to destabilize the government. Addressing supporters at a rally in Monagas state, Maduro urged vigilance and unity among his followers, claiming to possess evidence of the opposition's plans.

The Venezuelan president emphasized that despite these alleged threats, he and eight other presidential candidates have committed to respecting the election outcome, as outlined in a recent pact signed on June 20. This agreement pledges to recognize the will of the people as determined by the National Electoral Council.

As tensions escalate in the lead-up to the presidential election, Maduro's accusations underscore deepening political divisions and apprehensions over potential unrest in Venezuela.