The Latest: OAS chief condemns Venezuela as march unfolds

Opposition members set up a barricade during a protest in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, April 19, 2017. Opponents of President Nicolas Maduro called on Venezuelans to take to the streets on Wednesday for what they dubbed the "mother of all marches" against the embattled socialist leader. Government supporters are holding their own counter demonstration. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano) Opposition members set up a barricade during a protest in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, April 19, 2017. Opponents of President Nicolas Maduro called on Venezuelans to take to the streets on Wednesday for what they dubbed the "mother of all marches" against the embattled socialist leader. Government supporters are holding their own counter demonstration. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

By Associated Press April 19, 2017 3 min read

CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) – The Latest on opposition and pro-government marches in Venezuela. (all times local):

12:45 p.m.

A senior diplomatic official for the Western Hemisphere was in Miami condemning the government of Venezuela as the opposition in the South American nation flooded into the streets for a massive demonstration.

Organization of American States Secretary General Luis Almagro told an audience at an economic forum that Venezuela has “deteriorated into a full-scale dictatorship.” He said Venezuelans have been denied basic human rights and that the government of President Nicolas Maduro is only concerned with maintaining its power.

Almagro said the OAS would continue to seek a restoration of democracy.