Caracas, Venezuela:
Venezuelans are bracing for trouble as both supporters of the government and the opposition prepare for major rallies in a country that has been roiled by violence in recent days.
Women supporters of President Nicolas Maduro are planning a march Saturday in the capital of Caracas. The opposition says it will also hold large rallies throughout the country.
Opposition Gov. Henrique Capriles says these are intended as peaceful protests to show public discontent over high crime, food shortages and other problems facing Venezuela. President Maduro has said the wave of protests and violent clashes that began Feb. 12 are part of a right-wing attempt to topple his socialist government.
Political violence is blamed for at least eight deaths and more than 100 injuries on both sides.