Venezuelan Leader Rejects New Election Proposal

SAO PAULO (AP) — Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has dismissed a proposal from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for a new presidential election in Venezuela, following the disputed results of last month’s vote. Lula reiterated his refusal to recognize Nicolás Maduro as the legitimate winner, suggesting that Maduro should consider calling for new elections if he acts with "good sense." Lula emphasized that Maduro owes an explanation to both Brazilians and the international community regarding the election's legitimacy. While many countries have either recognized Maduro or his opponent, González, as the election winner, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico have maintained a neutral stance. Lula's comments came during an interview with Radio T, where he urged for transparency in the electoral process, including the release of tally sheets by Venezuela's National Electoral Council. His advisor, Celso Amorim, who monitored the election in Caracas, echoed the need for accountability, although he noted that lifting sanctions would be necessary for such transparency. The prospect of a new election poses significant risks for Maduro and his allies, as recent protests and the results of the July vote indicate a decline in their support. The opposition claims to have gathered tally sheets from over 80% of the voting machines, revealing that Maduro lost by a substantial margin. An analysis of these sheets raises serious doubts about the official results, suggesting that González received significantly more votes than reported by the government.