The need for international verification
Former Spanish president Felipe González has expressed his concern about the integrity of the electoral process in Venezuela. According to him, an independent body should carry out a review of the election results, especially considering the allegations of manipulations that the government of Nicolás Maduro is carrying out with the help of a Chinese group.
A context of negotiation between the opposition and Chavismo
González has indicated that the opposition is open to dialogue with the current government, with the aim of seeking reconciliation and not revenge. This includes the possibility of not demanding Maduro’s immediate departure, as long as the election results are verified fairly.
Criticism of international observation
The former socialist leader has not missed the opportunity to criticize José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, who acted as an observer in the last elections. González regretted that Zapatero did not ask for the review of the acts, contrary to other members of the Puebla Group.
The current situation and popular support
With popular support fading, González believes Maduro has lost favor with Venezuelans, who have suffered a drastic reduction in national wealth during his tenure. This has generated an overwhelming demand to restore freedom and respect for the Constitution.
A scenario of political transition
González has emphasized that the opposition leaders are willing to work on a peaceful transition, with an eye on the next elections that will take place in January 2025. The idea is that those who win govern and those who lose adapt to the new political reality
Requests to the international community
In addition, the former president has called on the international community, including the presidents of Brazil, Colombia and Mexico, to demand that Maduro end the political persecution and allow independent verification of the results. González considers it essential that the electoral results be compared.
A warning about the future
Finally, González has warned that if Maduro does not seize the opportunity to enter a democracy that respects the Constitution, he could face international legal consequences. The current situation in Venezuela is precarious, and the continuation of the regime could lead to further repression and the loss of civil rights.
