Massive demonstrations throughout the country
This Saturday, a large number of Venezuelan citizens opposed to the regime of Nicolás Maduro took to the streets of Caracas and other major cities such as Anaco, Maracay and Valencia. The protesters joined in a clamor for electoral justice, alleging that the process of July 28 was marked by irregularities that tarnish its legitimacy.
The Context of the Controversial Elections
The official result of the National Electoral Council (CNE) proclaimed Maduro as the winner with 51.95% of the votes, while his main opponent, Edmundo González Urrutia, received 43.18%. However, the opposition, through the Democratic Unitary Platform (PUD), maintains that González Urrutia should have obtained the majority according to the voting records, which have been disseminated on a web portal.
International Support and Voice of the Diaspora
The protests have spread beyond Venezuela, reaching cities in Colombia, Argentina and the United States, where the Venezuelan community has expressed its discontent. Some governments in the region, including Argentina and Uruguay, have expressed their support for the opposition. In response, Maduro has taken the decision to withdraw ambassadors.
Reaction of Maduro and State Security
President Maduro denied the opposition’s accusations and said the documentation they presented was invalid. He promised justice for those who participated in the protests, which he described as violent, indicating that nearly 2,000 people have been arrested in various demonstrations for serious crimes, some of which involve attacks on electoral centers.
Opposition Leadership: Corina Machado at the Center of Controversy
Maria Corina Machado, a representative of the PUD, expressed her commitment to a peaceful but firm struggle, insisting that the recent election constitutes a turning point towards a revitalized democracy in Venezuela. Despite her fears of reprisals, the leader was greeted with cheers of ‘freedom’ by thousands of protesters in Caracas.
Security Crisis and Government Response
The demonstrations, which were mostly peaceful, were met with acts of violence in some regions, with reported cases of attacks by motorized groups that generated fear among the opposition. Despite this situation, Machado emphasized that her movement opposes violence and proposes a civic and peaceful protest.
Future Projections in an Uncertain Scenario
Edmundo González Urrutia reaffirmed his determination to respect the people’s decision and to work towards the re-institutionalization of Venezuela. However, the tense atmosphere in the country suggests that the next few weeks will be critical, with the opposition and the Maduro regime facing an uncertain and potentially conflictive future.
Popular Answers and Posture Strengthening
Meanwhile, Maduro’s supporters also demonstrated, supporting his re-election claim and arguing that the fraud allegations are an attempt to destabilize the legitimate government. The marches and counter-marches in Caracas reflect the deep divide facing the nation and the polarization that continues to plague Venezuelan society.
