Forget the ceremonial gavel passing and group photos. Venezuela's new congress, now dominated by opponents of the socialist administration, was sworn in amid dueling street demonstrations, mutual accusations of subverting democracy and a looming potential for violence.

With the seating of the newly elected National Assembly, it is the first time in 17 years that opponents of the socialist revolution begun by the late President Hugo Chavez will control any institution in the South American country.

Before the legislature convened on Tuesday morning, small groups began marching toward the National Assembly, carrying banners of Venezuela's opposition parties.