A significant moment occurred at the Fenalco Congress. María Corina Machado, the Venezuelan politician, industrial engineer, and professor, whose name resonates globally today due to her fight for freedom and democracy in Venezuela, made her appearance virtually and received a couple of surprises.
A group of Colombian merchants honored her and recognized her role as a fighter and defender of rights. In the auditorium, former president Álvaro Uribe Vélez stood to commend the path taken by the Venezuelan leader, who announced that on September 28, there will be a global movement in 500 cities to support the cause of defending democracy in her neighboring country.
María Corina Machado, Venezuelan leader | Photo: Martha Morales Manchego / Semana
In her address, Machado—who is known for having restored hope to her country—began by expressing gratitude to Colombians for welcoming over 3 million Venezuelans who practically fled their nation, overwhelmed by the situation under Nicolás Maduro’s regime.
In that regard, she publicly stated that she had news for our country: “I want those compatriots back,” she said, becoming emotional as she recounted the foundations of her cause.
“What is happening in Venezuela is not just an electoral movement. It is an ethical fight for the truth,” she declared.
Machado, who has become the opposition leader against the Maduro regime and was the winner of the July 28, 2024 elections amidst questions and doubts regarding transparency, was seen visiting streets filled with supporters. She now faces an arrest warrant and has had to seek refuge. From this position, she addressed Colombians to share some of her strength in what several attendees of the Fenalco Congress labeled a ‘heroic feat’ for freedom.
She is the one advocating for a governmental change in favor of Edmundo González, who is projected to have a comfortable victory in the elections.
Jaime Alberto Cabal, president of Fenalco | Photo: Courtesy / Fenalco
In that context, she expressed her gratitude to Colombians, whom she views as allies in her struggles, for providing refuge to Venezuelans and listening to their experiences in the neighboring country.
“What we have achieved so far is ethical and we will pursue it to the end,” she remarked while seeking the support of this country, the continent, and the entire world.
She recalled that as a teacher and Venezuelan citizen, she never considered entering politics, seeing it as something distant. Now, she believes that it was a significant mistake and advised Colombians who have the opportunity to take charge of the country with their ideas: “We need the best citizens dedicated to public service. We must bring them into politics. That is fundamental.” Of course, she emphasized that if there is one area that requires strengthening, it is education, as it is the path to freedom.
Mayors after finishing panel at Fenalco Congress. | Photo: Supplied to Semana.
María Corina Machado’s Inspiring Message at the Fenalco Congress
A particular moment was experienced at the Fenalco Congress. María Corina Machado, the Venezuelan politician and industrial engineer, professor, whose name travels the world today for her battle to defend freedom and democracy in Venezuela, made her appearance virtually, but received a couple of surprises.
A group of Colombian shopkeepers paid tribute to her and highlighted her role as a fighter and defender of rights. In the auditorium, former president Álvaro Uribe Vélez stood up to praise the path taken by the Venezuelan leader, who announced that this September 28 there will be a global movement, in 500 cities, to support the neighboring country’s cause of defending democracy.
María Corina Machado, Venezuelan leader | Photo: Martha Morales Manchego / Semana
In her speech, Machado—who is recognized for having restored hope to the neighboring nation—started by sending thanks to Colombians for having received more than 3 million Venezuelans who practically fled their country, overwhelmed by the situation in Venezuela, under the command of Nicolás Maduro.
In that sense, she publicly stated that she had news for Colombia: “I want those compatriots back,” she indicated, becoming emotional while recounting the foundations of her cause.
“What is happening in Venezuela is not an electoral movement. It is an ethical fight for the truth,” she emphasized.
Machado, since becoming the opposition leader of the Maduro regime, who was proclaimed the winner of the elections on July 28, 2024, amid questions and doubts about transparency, has been seen on tours through streets packed with people. Now, she faces an arrest warrant and has had to take refuge. From there, she addressed the Colombians to share with them some of her strength in what several of those attending the Fenalco Congress called a ‘heroic feat’ for freedom.
She is the one who promotes a change of government in favor of Edmundo González, who would have had a comfortable victory in the elections.
Jaime Alberto Cabal, president of Fenalco | Photo: Courtesy / Fenalco
In that context, she expressed her thanks to the Colombians, whom she sees as allies in her battles, for welcoming the Venezuelans and listening to their experiences in the neighboring country.
“What we have achieved so far is ethical and goes to the end,” she stated while seeking support from Colombia, the continent, and the entire world.
She recalled that as a teacher and Venezuelan citizen, she never thought about dedicating herself to politics, something she had always viewed as far away. Now, she is convinced that it was a huge mistake and advised Colombians with the potential to take the reins of the country: “We need the best citizens dedicated to public service. We must bring them into politics. That is fundamental.” She emphasized that if anything needs strengthening, it is education, for that is the path to freedom.
Mayors after finishing panel at Fenalco Congress. | Photo: Supplied to Semana.
A Call for Global Support
María Corina Machado’s announcement of a global movement on September 28 in 500 cities is a crucial step in garnering international support for Venezuela’s struggle against dictatorship and for the restoration of democracy. This initiative could unite millions around the world, raising awareness about the plight of Venezuelans and reinforcing their fight for freedom.
The Importance of Education in Times of Crisis
Education plays a vital role in establishing a foundation for democracy and freedom. Machado’s emphasis on the need for well-informed citizens engaged in public service resonates strongly, especially in countries facing political turmoil. By encouraging participation in politics from educated citizens, she is advocating for a more robust and representative system.
Machado’s Vision for the Future
Through her speeches and initiatives, Machado has managed to create a ripple effect among both Venezuelans and Colombians. The shared experiences of migration, cultural exchange, and solidarity have fortified a community dedicated to supporting democracy and social justice in Venezuela. Her insistence on the ethical dimensions of their struggle provides a moral framework that elevates their cause beyond politics.
Benefits of Supporting Democracy in Venezuela
- Promotion of human rights and individual freedoms.
- Stabilization of the region by combating authoritarianism.
- Fostering an environment for economic growth and social development.
- Creating pathways for the return of expatriated Venezuelans.
Practical Tips for Supporting the Cause
Individuals and organizations wishing to support the movement for democracy in Venezuela can take concrete actions, such as:
- Participating in local events related to the global movement on September 28.
- Sharing information on social media to raise awareness.
- Donating to organizations that support Venezuelan refugees.
- Encouraging local representatives to address issues related to Venezuelan democracy in international forums.
Conclusion: A Shared Commitment to Freedom
The events at the Fenalco Congress highlighted the importance of international solidarity in the fight for democracy. María Corina Machado’s vision resonates as a beacon of hope for millions and serves as a reminder of the values that must guide collective action against tyranny.
