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Venezuela's Maduro Faces Uncertain Future as Opposition Calls for Fresh Vote
Four former officials in the government of President Nicolás Maduro have outlined his options in the wake of a disputed election that has sparked widespread protests and international condemnation.
The Maduro government has been accused of rigging the May 20 election, in which he was declared the winner by a narrow margin. The opposition has called for a fresh vote, but Maduro has refused, claiming that he won fairly.
The former officials, who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity, said that Maduro is facing a difficult choice. He can either try to crush the opposition by force, or he can negotiate with them and agree to a new election.
If Maduro chooses to crack down on the opposition, it could lead to a bloody civil war. The opposition has already called for a general strike, and there have been reports of violence and looting in some parts of the country.
If Maduro chooses to negotiate, he will have to make concessions to the opposition. This could include agreeing to a new election, or to form a unity government that includes members of the opposition.
The former officials said that Maduro is likely to try to negotiate with the opposition, but that he will only do so if he believes that he is in a strong position. If the opposition can maintain the pressure on Maduro, it is possible that he will be forced to agree to their demands.
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