Maduro under pressure as Venezuela opposition claims big win

Caracas: Venezuelan opposition leaders said Tuesday they won a two-thirds majority in the legislature, which could challenge President Nicolas Maduro`s grip on power in the oil-rich but crisis-hit nation.

Analysts warn a tough political struggle lies ahead after Maduro`s rivals broke his side`s 16-year control of the National Assembly in elections Sunday.

Supporters of the opposition coalition MUD let off fireworks and danced in the street as the latest results of the vote came out late Monday.

Senior opposition leader Henrique Capriles said on Twitter the MUD "obtained a qualified majority," with 112 of the 167 seats in the National Assembly.

Within hours, the national electoral board confirmed the 112-seat majority.

The opposition in the legislature will now be able to call a referendum, launch constitutional reforms, replace senior judges and even take measures to try to depose Maduro.