Venezuelans protest after quashed referendum

(BBC) Venezuelan government opponents marched through Caracas after officials blocked their attempts to hold a referendum.

The wives of two jailed opposition leaders headed the marchers who were dressed in white and waved national flags.

On Thursday election officials suspended a petition seeking a referendum on removing President Nicolas Maduro from office.

The move was criticised by the Organization of American States.

In a statement, 12 OAS member countries, including Brazil, Argentina and Colombia said they were “profoundly worried by the decision taken by the Venezuelan National Electoral Council.”