Venezuelan Opposition Faces Intensifying Repression Ahead of Presidential Election

The security chief of Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado was arrested, raising concerns over the fairness of the upcoming presidential election. With Edmundo Gonzalez, the opposition candidate, polling ahead of President Nicolas Maduro, the detention seems part of broader attempts to stifle opposition activities.

The security chief of Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado was arrested early Wednesday, according to her Vente Venezuela political movement. This arrest has raised concerns over the fairness of the upcoming presidential election on July 28.

Edmundo Gonzalez, the opposition coalition's candidate, is currently polling ahead of President Nicolas Maduro, who is running for a third term. Machado, barred from running due to alleged fraud violations, has seen several supporters detained.

Milciades Avila, Machado's security chief, was taken from the house where he had been staying. Machado and her political movement warn of escalating repression from Maduro's regime against her team. Venezuela's opposition claims these moves are meant to jeopardize its election campaign.

(With inputs from agencies.)