These photos show just how divided Venezuela is right now
Hugo Chavez’s would-be successor Nicolas Maduro struggles to contain violent protests as the country marks the first anniversary of Chavez’s death.
An opposition activist hurls a molotov cocktail at National Guard troops during a protest against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, in Caracas.
It was a study of contrasts in Venezuela on Wednesday, as the country prepared to celebrate its late leader Hugo Chavez amid weeks of violent protests.
Tens of thousands of Chavez supporters were expected to flood the nation's streets on the first anniversary of the socialist's death.
Workers prepped for an elaborate military parade and ceremony in Caracas. Rallies were also planned in cities big and small across the country in what some viewed as a chance for embattled President Nicolas Maduro to reclaim the streets and show opponents that he too could garner mass support.
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Some opposition leaders called for a day without protests to show respect for Chavez's memory.
But many students said they would not stop.
Leaders friendly to Chavez — Cuba's Raul Castro, Nicaragua's Daniel Ortega, and Bolivia's Evo Morales — flew to Caracas for the parades and celebrations.
These photos of protesters and Chavez preparations show just how divided the country is right now.
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