Leaders condemn Venezuelan president's rise to power
Many world leaders - including Australia - have condemned the inauguration of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Maduro was sworn in for a third six-year term and was inaugurated on 10 January. Since then, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade have expressed concerns about the presidency in a statement. “We urge Venezuelan authorities to respect democratic principles and to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedoms of opinion and expression, and of peaceful assembly,” the statement said. “The Australian Government reiterates its calls for a peaceful return to democracy in Venezuela and the immediate release of all political detainees by Venezuelan authorities.” Maduro rose to power after the death of left-wing leader Hugo Chavez in 2013 and his tenure has been filled with accusations of authoritarianism as well as economic and political unrest. Maduro was quick to claim victory in last year’s July elections claiming that he received 51% of the votes. While the country’s electoral authorities sided with Maduro, the opposition had published claims that his opponent Edmundo Gonzalez won by a convincing margin. The inauguration came a day after opposition leader, Maria Cor