Latin America

Anti-gov’t protesters to hold fresh rally in Caracas

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Students and opponents of the Venezuelan government are set to hold a fresh rally in the capital Caracas to mark a month of protests in the South American country.

The new rally, called by the opposition, is planned to take place in Caracas on Wednesday in commemoration of the beginning of the country’s violent pro- and anti-government demonstrations in February 12.

The western city of San Cristobal, known as the birthplace of the opposition, is currently the scene of latest round of protests.

The unrest began when Daniel Tinoco, a student leader, was reportedly killed after being shot in the chest on Monday night in San Cristobal during a protest against the leftist government of President Nicolas Maduro.

According to reports, at least 22 people have been killed since the unrest erupted in Venezuela a month ago.

The opposition has criticized the Maduro administration for the country’s high crime rate and economic hardships, claiming that the government policies have led to a shortage of essential goods and high inflation.

Venezuela ranks as one of the most violence-stricken countries in the world, with an average of 71 murders every day.

Last year, Venezuela’s inflation soared to 56.2 percent, which was almost three times higher than the rate of 20.1 percent registered in 2012.

Maduro, however, says the opposition seeks to launch a coup d’état in Venezuela with the backing of Washington.

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