Approximately 203 polling stations for regional elections in Venezuela scheduled for 15 October were
relocated at the last moment, as reported by El Nacional reported on 13 October 2017, supposedly to avoid potential violent incidents. Just days before, as reported by El Universal on 6 October 2017, leaders of the Roman Catholic Church had
called on the population to exercise their right to vote "en masse" for their own sakes and for those of future generations. In a separate development, Panam Post reported on 8 October 2017 that students at the University of Los Andes had been
forced to attend pro-government activities in order to receive monthly grants. The students were given a certificate of attendance obliging them to support further government activities or face being fined.
Rossana Ramirez, persecution analyst at World Watch Research, gives some background information: "The regional vote is the first of many steps in the presidential electoral process. The sudden relocation of polling stations is aimed at harming the opposition and
affects the voting right of more than 312,000 citizens, who are likely to have great difficulties in getting to the new voting zones. Such government manipulation is also evident in the pressure on students. Against all freedom of conscience, they are being forced to become supporters of the current ruling political party."
Rossana Ramirez adds: "These actions seem to be the latest attempt by the government to remain in power at all costs. The Episcopal Conference of the Roman Catholic Church is encouraging all Venezuelans to exercise their right to vote so that democracy can be restored, along with citizens" fundamental rights. Through their vote, Christians have the opportunity to show their opposition to the injustices of the current regime without fear of the usual reprisals."
