Venezuela goes to polls as opposition boycotts Nicolas Maduro's socialist power-grab

Venezuelans have begun to vote in the controversial election of a constitutional super-body. Opposition parties are boycotting the election which is opposed by a large majority of Venezuelans. Voters only get to select the super-body's members not vote on its establishment. The election is expected to grand the ruling Socialist Party widespread new powers. President Nicolás Maduro states this move will bring peace after months of violent protests. Critics say it will allow Maduro to dissolve the opposition-run Congress. They see the election super-body as an attempt to establish dictatorial rule in the crisis-hit country.