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Maria Corina Machado’s Vision for Venezuela: A Path to Democratic Transition
September 5, 2024
From a place of shelter, the leader of the Venezuelan opposition, Maria Corina Machado, answered a questionnaire sent to her by the AFP agency. Among other things, she states that Nicolás Maduro could receive guarantees, safe-conduct passes, and potential incentives to leave power in Venezuela.
In her response, the national coordinator of Vente Venezuela exposed details of what could evolve into a “negotiation for the democratic transition” in the country. “We are determined to move forward in negotiations. It will be a complex, delicate transition process, in which we will unite the entire nation.” Machado emphasized.
The National Electoral Council (CNE) declared Nicolás Maduro the winner of the presidential elections on July 28, citing 52% of the votes, without publishing the vote count details. They alleged that their system was hacked.
In contrast, the opposition asserts that Edmundo González Urrutia, candidate of the Unitary Platform, won with 67% of the vote, based on scanned electoral records published online. Maduro’s administration dismisses this evidence as false, leading the Chavista leader to seek certification from the Supreme Court of Justice, a move the opposition contests.
Machado insists that González Urrutia, a 74-year-old diplomat, was the clear winner. He has been actively working to gain support and promote the necessary processes to uphold his election as president, as reported by AFP.
Maduro’s re-election faces scrutiny from the United States, the European Union, and several Latin American countries, who emphasize the necessity for thorough examination. Machado urges the international community to recognize González Urrutia’s victory and to apply pressure on Maduro for a negotiated transition.
Following the election results, protests erupted, resulting in at least 24 deaths and over 2,200 arrests, as reported by human rights organizations. Maduro has responded with a harsh crackdown, preparing two maximum-security prisons for those detained. Machado denounces the government’s brutal response but maintains faith that popular sovereignty and the truth will ultimately prevail.
According to AFP, Machado refutes claims of “absolute loyalty” from the military high command to Maduro. She argues that many military personnel supported the collection of records on her website. Machado believes that the majority of military and police forces desire a transformation toward a Venezuela characterized by justice, opportunity, and freedom.
“Maduro’s only recourse now is to surround himself with violence and fear, relying on a small group of high-ranking military personnel who do not reflect the aspirations of the majority of our National Armed Forces.” she noted.
The political leader is confident that on January 10, 2025, Venezuela will witness Edmundo González Urrutia as its new president and commander in chief, signifying the dawn of a new era for the country.
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ords and independent observations.
Machado called for international support in the negotiation process, highlighting the crucial role that foreign governments and organizations could play in ensuring a peaceful and democratic transition. She believes that a coalition of nations committed to democracy can provide the necessary pressure and legitimacy for the transition efforts.
In her vision, a new government in Venezuela would prioritize restoring democratic institutions, fostering economic recovery, and ensuring social justice. “The future of Venezuela lies in the hands of its people,” she stated passionately, urging citizens to remain engaged and hopeful.
Maria Corina Machado's remarks come amidst ongoing political turmoil in Venezuela, where many citizens are facing severe economic hardships and a humanitarian crisis. The opposition leader's call for dialogue and collaboration aims to mobilize both national and international support towards a stable, democratic Venezuela.
As the situation continues to evolve, Machado remains optimistic, stating, “This is a crucial moment for our country. Together, we can build a better future.”
The global community is watching closely, as the potential for change in Venezuela hinges not only on internal dynamics but also on the role that external actors choose to play in this pivotal moment in the nation's history.
