President’s Allies Likely to Gain in Local Polls

Venezuelans voted for municipal and neighborhood councils, with allies of President Hugo Chavez expected to benefit from his popularity and solidify their control over local authorities.

The elections could illustrate voter mood before key National Assembly polls in December as Chavez opponents fight to recover from their defeat in last year’s presidential referendum and state elections.

A fractured opposition struggled to present a clear message as some leaders called on voters to abstain.

Many opposition supporters say electoral authorities are biased in favor of Chavez and fear vote-rigging.