Venezuela Braces for High-Stakes Presidential Election

Venezuelan opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez expressed confidence in the military's respect for election results ahead of Sunday’s presidential vote. Despite strong support, electoral fairness is in question due to recent arrests and decisions by authorities. Incumbent President Nicolas Maduro, seeking a third term, touted Venezuela’s electoral transparency, though doubts linger and external observers have withdrawn.

Venezuelan opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez stated on Thursday that he trusts the country's military will uphold the results of the upcoming presidential election, as both he and current President Nicolas Maduro wrapped up their final rallies.

Gonzalez has gained considerable support, even among former ruling party allies. However, concerns persist over the election's integrity due to actions by electoral authorities and the arrest of some opposition campaign members aimed at creating hurdles.

Maduro, in power since 2013 and running for a third term, claims Venezuela has the world's most transparent electoral system. "We are going to win... and we trust our armed forces will respect our people's will," Gonzalez said in Caracas. "Millions of Venezuelans want change."

(With inputs from agencies.)