Venezuela commenced regional and legislative elections on Sunday, with polling stations opening at 6 a.m. local time. The elections mark a significant event, as citizens will vote for a new governor and other representatives.

The elections include the disputed Guayana Esequiba region, a territory claimed by both Venezuela and Guyana. This marks the first time authorities for this state will be chosen through the ballot box. This inclusion has heightened international interest and drawn scrutiny, given the ongoing territorial dispute.

President Nicolas Maduro encouraged citizens to participate in the elections, emphasizing the importance of exercising their constitutional right to vote. Approximately 21.4 million Venezuelans are eligible to vote for 569 positions including the National Assembly, 24 governorships, and 260 regional legislative posts.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) had urged Venezuela to refrain from holding elections in Esequibo, which Venezuelan authorities rejected, citing a lack of recognition of the court’s jurisdiction. Prior to the vote, authorities reported the arrest of far-right activists, accusing them of attempting to disrupt the election process.

Over 15,000 polling centers and almost 28,000 voting tables have been set up across the country for the elections. The election includes the election of a governor, eight national parliament deputies, and seven members of a regional legislative council for the state of Guayana Esequiba.