National Constituent Assembly President Delcy Rodriguez attends to one of its session in Caracas. Delcy Rodriguez, a Maduro ally and president of the constituent assembly, insisted the move did not imply a dissolution of the congress. Mercosur founding members Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay will not recognise any measures taken by the assembly, the statement said. Protests have slowed since the July 30 election, partly because opposition leaders are in talks to present candidates for the gubernatorial elections expected in October. Washington has said it will consider sanctions against anyone who participates in the constituent assembly.

Source: Otago Daily Times August 19, 2017 02:15 UTC