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Continued Boycott of Venezuelan Election

A fourth party has boycotted the congressional election in Venezuela, this time a political opposition party. The party states that the electronic voting machines to be used are would be simple to manipulate. Primero Justicia agrees with the main opposition party Democratic Action, the Social Christian party, and Project Venezuela in boycotting the Sunday election. Despite the boycott, the government says the election for an expanded 167-seat Congress will take place on Sunday.

Chavez has promised to increase his political majority in congress from 52 percent to over 60 percent, with a two-thirds majority giving him the power to pass constitutional amendments. The government will have over 120,000 soldiers on hand to watch voting stations.

International observers will be present, including the Organization of American States and the European Union, yet some nations still worry about voter fraud. The United States has been a key critic of the pro-Castro administration of President Hugo Chavez.