Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has called on Colombian President Gustavo Petro to recognize her faction’s victory in the disputed July presidential election. In a virtual address to Colombian senators, she emphasized the urgency of international pressure on Maduro’s regime, while her coalition claims significant electoral evidence contrary to the government’s announcement. Machado warned of the dangers posed by Maduro’s continuation in power, particularly regarding security issues for Colombia.
Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has urged Colombian President Gustavo Petro to recognize her faction’s electoral victory in the controversial July presidential elections in Venezuela. During a virtual address to the Colombian Senate, Machado emphasized the importance of international pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, insisting that it is time for significant decisions regarding the recognition of the supposed opposition victory. Having remained in hiding for two months due to fears of arrest, Machado stated, “Silence is no longer an option in the face of what is happening in Venezuela” and expressed her readiness for constructive negotiations that respect the will of Venezuelans as expressed in the disputed elections. Machado claims that while electoral authorities associated with Maduro declared him the winner without releasing comprehensive results, her coalition has gathered evidence from over 80% of the electronic voting machine records indicating that opposition candidate Edmundo González won decisively. She appealed to Colombian senators to support the opposition’s cause, saying, “To you, honourable senators, I ask you to be guarantors of our victory and to be the voice of those of us who… face the most atrocious and ruthless repression.” Additionally, Machado highlighted the broader implications for regional stability should Maduro continue his presidency. She warned that his government has become a sanctuary for criminal guerrilla groups entering Colombia, a situation that could jeopardize President Petro’s initiatives aimed at peace agreements with local rebel factions. Despite offers from regional leaders, including Petro and former Mexican President López Obrador to help mediate the electoral crisis, Maduro has fortified his power by reshuffling his cabinet and detaining thousands of opposition members. As the presidential term in Venezuela is set to commence on January 10, Machado remains committed to rallying international support against Maduro while ensuring her safety in exile, as various members of the opposition face arrests and persecution from the regime.
The political climate in Venezuela has been extremely volatile with accusations of election fraud and heavy crackdowns on opposition leaders. Maria Corina Machado is a prominent figure opposing Nicolás Maduro, who has been accused of conducting undemocratic practices to maintain power, including silencing dissent and manipulating electoral outcomes. The recent elections in July have been contested by Machado’s coalition, asserting they have legitimate evidence of a different electoral result than what was officially announced. The involvement of Colombia’s government, led by President Gustavo Petro, highlights regional tensions and the potential impact of Venezuelan politics on Colombian security and governance.
In summary, Maria Corina Machado’s call for international recognition of her electoral victory reflects the deep-rooted challenges facing the Venezuelan opposition in their struggle against President Nicolás Maduro’s regime. By seeking support from Colombia and emphasizing the regional implications of continued authoritarian rule in Venezuela, Machado aims to galvanize action that could lead to a political transition. Her situation underscores the risks faced by opposition figures in Venezuela and the need for international engagement to address the crisis.
Original Source: www.oneindia.com
