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Venezuela’s National Assembly erupted into chaos on Tuesday as opposition lawmakers took their seats to begin the new year’s session, but only after forcing their way through a phalanx of government soldiers.

National Guardsmen in body armor initially prevented Juan Guaidó, the leader of the country’s opposition, from entering the building along with his supporters.

“Here the people rule!” the legislators cried as they pushed through the heavy wooden doors and installed Mr. Guaidó at the front of the assembly’s main hall.

It was an exceptionally turbulent morning, even for a nation that is becoming increasingly accustomed to high-stakes political drama.

And it did little to resolve Venezuela’s political tumult: The country, which is facing a worsening humanitarian crisis, has two men claiming the presidency and two men claiming the leadership of the assembly.

On Tuesday, the legislature’s first meeting of the year deteriorated into a melee in which, according to Mr. Guaidó’s press office, four opposition legislators were injured.

The National Guard also launched tear gas at Mr. Guaidó and other opposition members as they made their way to the building.

With the lights of the chamber out, Mr. Guaidó stood at front of the assembly hall, taking the oath as head of legislature, and opening the year’s legislative session.

But he fled through basement, along with some legislators and reporters, when members of colectivos — the armed civilians band that back the government and are known for violence — were allowed into the building.

It was the second time Tuesday that a self-proclaimed assembly president opened a legislative session only to flee the building.