Elections in Venezuela: 2015 Legislative Elections
On December 6, Venezuelans will go to the polls to elect Representatives to the 167-member National Assembly. These are the fourth National Assembly elections since the legislative body was established in 2000, after the dissolution of the old Congress by late former President Hugo Chávez’s government. Amid a worsening economic crisis with soaring inflation and lack of basic goods in the country, the upcoming legislative elections are critical because they have the potential of changing the balance of power in the country.
The elections are fraught with less than ideal circumstances to ensure a free and fair vote and Venezuela is not allowing international observation. Yet, according to the latest polls, the opposition Roundtable for Democratic Unity (MUD) is ahead of the official United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV). If the MUD wins, it would be the first time that the majority in the National Assembly would not be in the hands of the PSUV.
To help you understand this important electoral process, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) provides Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Elections in Venezuela: 2015 Legislative Elections. IFES FAQs include:
- Who are citizens voting for on Election Day?
- Why are these elections important?
- How is election administration structured in Venezuela?
- Will there be observation during Election Day?
