Violent Venezuelan protests continue

Antigovernment protests in Venezuela were continuing as of press time with increasing violence. Since protests began on March 29, at least 61 people have been killed and many others, wounded. Police and armed forces have used tear gas, vehicles and live ammunition against demonstrators. In many areas of the country, protesters have set up roadblocks to prevent police and armed forces from breaking up crowds. 

Protests began when Venezuela’s Supreme Court ruled that the Parliament, which is controlled by parties opposing President Nicolas Maduro, was invalid. The court also ruled that the court, itself, had the power to enact laws without oversight. The court reversed that decision a few days later, but that did not appease opposition groups. 

In response to the protests, President Maduro called for a constitutional committee to redraft Venezuela’s constitution.

Venezuela is currently suffering from high inflation as well as shortages in food, medicine and other necessities.