Originally posted by the Voice of America. Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America, a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in the public domain. Venezuela Political Tensions Rise amid Protests, Clashes Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro responded Saturday to ongoing opposition protests with a counter-demonstration bringing together thousands of his supporters. President Maduro, successor to the late Hugo Chavez, used the pro-government rally in the Venezuelan capital to denounce opposition leader Leopoldo López. López currently faces an arrest warrant for organizing anti-government protests Wednesday that resulted in deadly clashes with police and government supporters. Three people were killed, including two opposition protesters. Labeling López a "fascist" and a "coward," Mr. Maduro Saturday called on the opposition leader to turn himself in. Saturday`s pro-government show of strength followed demonstrations Friday that saw Venezuelan forces use teargas and water cannons to disperse hundreds of student protesters angry with Mr. Maduro over soaring inflation, goods shortages and rampant crime. Nearly 100 people have been arrested in the past week of protests. __________________________________________________________________ [1]http://www.voanews.com/content/venezuela-political-tensions-rise-ami d-protests-clashes/1852222.html References 1. http://www.voanews.com/content/venezuela-political-tensions-rise-amid-protests-clashes/1852222.html