A significant Venezuelan opposition faction has officially entered a candidate for the upcoming presidential election in July to secure a place on the ballot.

This move comes after electoral authorities and sources revealed on Tuesday that the primary victor and her alternate were unable to complete the registration process, AP News reports.

The broader Venezuela opposition coalition found itself without an elected contender following developments surrounding Maria Corina Machado.

Machado, who emerged victorious in the opposition's nominating contest last year with a substantial majority, intended to challenge incumbent President Nicolas Maduro.

However, complications arose as Machado faced a continuation of a public office ban, which led to the reinstatement of certain sanctions by the United States.

Venezuelan Opposition Faces Registration Hurdles Ahead of Election

The Venezuela opposition coalition group Unitary Platform (PUD) faced challenges when trying to register its candidate, Corina Yoris, due to issues accessing the electoral council's website. BBC noted.

These difficulties compound existing obstacles for the PUD, notably since their leader, María Corina Machado, is banned from running for public office.

Polls indicate Machado could win against Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro in a fair election.

In contrast, Maduro had a smooth registration process for his third term candidacy, hosting a rally in Caracas with enthusiastic supporters.

Surprisingly, twelve candidates from minor parties, including Manuel Rosales, governor of Zulia state, registered, catching the PUD off guard.

Despite speculation about supporting Rosales, Machado reaffirmed her backing for Yoris. She criticized Maduro for essentially choosing his competitor by impeding Yoris' registration.

Machado's victory in the primary prompted government retaliation, such as imprisonment and warrants against her and members of the Vente Venezuela party.

Polls Favor Machado Amid US Concerns Over Venezuelan Election

Several opinion polls showed María Corina Machado, 56, likely to secure over 50% of the votes, while Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro, 61, was projected to receive around 20% in the presidential election.

The potential for Venezuela opposition coalition candidates to match Machado's support remained uncertain, especially without her full endorsement, according to Reuters.

Recent arrests of Machado's allies and warrants for seven others caused international concern.

In response to Machado's upheld ban, imposed over her support for US sanctions and corruption allegations, the US reinstated sanctions and warned of upcoming oil sanctions expirations in April.

A White House National Security Council spokesperson expressed worry over Yoris' registration issues and pledged US collaboration to ensure inclusive elections.

"As we stated in January, we are committed to maintaining sanctions relief if Maduro upholds the commitments outlined in the agreed-to Barbados electoral roadmap," the White House National Security Council spokesperson mentioning the October electoral agreement, which initially resulted in the relaxation of certain sanctions by the US.

They reiterated the United States' commitment to maintain sanctions relief if Maduro followed the Barbados electoral roadmap.

Venezuela's neighbors, Colombia and Brazil, also expressed concerns, urging compliance with the electoral agreement.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Venezuela presidential election: Political opponents barred from contest- From Al Jazeerah English