Troops Sent to Quell Vote-Related Clashes

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez sent troops to quell disturbances over disputed regional elections as several opposition candidates challenged the results of Sunday’s general elections. Chavez cruised to a six-year term in a ballot described as clean and fair by international observers. But tight races for state governors and mayors in many regions sparked protests and clashes as opposition candidates alleged vote fixing and sought recounts. In Merida, supporters of pro-Chavez candidate Florencio Porras and incumbent Gov. William Davila clashed outside the governor’s office, local media reported.