Venezuelans continue to take to the streets in large numbers as the political crisis deepens following President Nicolás Maduro’s contested election victory. The electoral authority, accused of favoring the ruling socialists, announced last Monday that Maduro had secured a narrow victory with 51% of the vote, compared to 46% for opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez. These results have ignited widespread allegations of electoral fraud and prompted ongoing protests across the country.
In response to the unrest, Venezuela’s security forces have intensified their crackdown, with Maduro’s government labeling the demonstrations as part of a U.S.-backed coup attempt. At a rally on Saturday, President Maduro claimed that approximately 2,000 people had been arrested during the protests. He warned of “maximum punishment” for those involved in the unrest, stating, “This time there will be no forgiveness.”
Supporters of Maduro argue that their demonstrations are in defense of democracy. Alfredo Valera, president of Venezuela’s Fontur union, expressed this sentiment at a pro-government rally in Caracas, asserting that they were “defending democracy” in response to the opposition’s actions.
However, the opposition, emboldened by the reemergence of leader María Corina Machado from hiding, has maintained a strong presence in the streets. Machado, who had been in hiding due to fears for her safety, joined the protests in Caracas on Saturday, leading to a surge of support from her followers. In an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal, Machado had previously expressed her fear of reprisals, but her surprise appearance galvanized the opposition.
“I don’t deny it’s a little scary to see security forces pass by,” said Maria Luzardo, a vendor in San Cristobal. “But if (Ms. Machado) is brave enough to be on the streets despite the threats, so are we. Venezuela is calling us.”
Protests have also spread to other cities, including Valencia, Maracaibo, and San Cristobal. Advocacy groups, including Human Rights Watch, report that at least 20 people have been killed in the post-election violence. The government has confirmed the arrest of around 1,200 individuals in connection with the demonstrations.
As the crisis continues, many Venezuelans are anxiously awaiting news of detained family members, with some gathering outside police stations seeking information. The ongoing unrest underscores the deep divisions and tensions within Venezuela’s political landscape as the nation grapples with the aftermath of a contentious election.