Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro called on international observers to respect the results of the local elections and the national legitimacy of Venezuela in today’s elections, during a press conference in the capital, Caracas.

Al Mayadeen correspondent in Caracas stated that the casting of the votes in the municipal and local elections has commenced Sunday morning.

Our correspondent interviewed a local observer who told Al Mayadeen that "the electoral process is running smoothly," adding that all polling stations were opened on time without any problems.

70,000 candidates and 23 governors, mayors, and members of municipal councils are competing in 355 towns.

Opinion polls show that the ruling party is in the lead, and the opposition parties are taking part in the elections divided.

Last week, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has pointed out that the elections on the 21st of November underscore commitment to the national constitution and peace in the country.

He also said that both opposition and loyalist candidates are spread throughout the country, which bears testament to Venezuela's democratic system.