62-year-old Chavista leader has governed the country since 2013; In response to tensions, the Colombian army intensified border patrols
This Friday (10) he assumes his third term in office, in a scenario marked by increasing repression against opponents. In a protest led by the opposition leader, who declared that the Maduro regime has come to an end. During the protest, there were reports that Machado was forcibly detained by Chavista military personnel, who allegedly fired firearms and forced her to record videos before releasing her. Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello denied the accusations, classifying them as “inventions”.
The attempt to arrest Maria Corina Machado was seen as a sign of weakness by the Maduro regime, according to protesters. The action generated international condemnation, with the Spanish government criticizing the repression, Colombia condemning the systematic harassment of the leader and the United States demanding that Corina’s right to speak freely be respected.
called the Venezuelan opponent, , the elected president and stated that both he and Corina express the will of the people through large demonstrations against Maduro. The president of Chile, , also spoke, calling for efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela. Experts, such as international relations professor Manuel Furriela, highlight that Machado’s arrest could be harmful to the image of the government, which already faces international criticism for keeping political prisoners.
Maduro’s inauguration, surrounded by allegations of electoral fraud, intensifies fears of a tightening of repression in the country. In power since 2013, the Venezuelan president should not be recognized as a legitimate president by most of the international community. In response to tensions, the Colombian army intensified border patrols.
Published by Luisa Cardoso
