The opposition had expected to re-elect Guaidó to office. But police forces set up barricades to prevent Guaidó and other opposition parliamentarians from entering the National Assembly.

Pictures showed how Guadió was barred against a wall of shields without being let through.

Used megaphone

The police's actions meant that the number of members present was too small to formally decide on a new president.

Despite this, Member of Parliament Luis Parra was sworn in as President. With a mini-copy of Venezuela's constitution in hand, he addressed the assembly via megaphone, where it was at times troubled; some opposition - and upset - members were still in place.

Parra was recently expelled from the opposition party Primero Justicia (First Justice) on charges of corruption, which he denies.

New Parliament Speaker Luis Parra surrounded by Second Deputy Speaker Jose Gregorio Goyo Noriega (left) and First Deputy Speaker Franklyn Duarte, also the new ones in their posts. Photo: Federico Parra / TT-AFP

On Twitter, Guadió commented on Sunday's events: "Today, those who helped prevent the legal installation of Venezuela's parliament have transformed themselves into dictators of the dictatorship and those who oppress the Venezuelan people."

Tighter grip

In January 2019, Guaidó proclaimed himself president. According to him, the re-election of Nicolas Maduro to the 2018 presidential election was not legitimate due to election fraud.

In a tense power struggle, Guaidó asked the military for help to overthrow Maduro, but was not heard. Nor did his attempt to bring food and medicines to the distressed population succeed because of the Maduro-loyal military and police.

Guaidó has been recognized as interim president by over 50 countries, including the United States, and held the post of President during the past year. But the increasingly authoritarian Maduro hugs only harder on power - which Sunday's development is a receipt for.