Venezuela faces violent protests almost a year after death of Chavez

Venezuela has once again been gripped by violent clashes.

Thousands have taken to the country’s capital Caracas, calling for the ousting of President Nicolas Madura.

This is only the latest of a wave of demonstrations in which 17 people have been killed, amidst scenes of running street battles.

Economic woes are behind much of the angst, as well at anger at the handling of the uproar.

The protests come almost a year to the day since the death of former leader Hugo Chavez.

Maduro was handpicked by Chavez to succeed him.

The country’s current president derides those demonstrating as trying to incite revolution.