Overview

• Venezuela's top prosecutor announced arrest warrants for Maria Corina Machado's campaign manager and eight other staffers, accusing them of involvement in a violent anti-government conspiracy.
• Two of Machado's staffers were arrested, with allegations stemming from a supposed confession by another staff member.
• This crackdown comes as an independent panel reports to the UN that the Maduro government has ramped up efforts to repress opponents.
• Despite being barred from holding public office for 15 years, Maria Corina Machado continues her presidential campaign.
• The presidential election is scheduled for July 28, with candidate registration running from March 21-25.