Venezuela's anti-government protesters voice discontent over Maduro's re-inauguration
"A month post Venezuela's controversial presidential election, swarmed by claims of deceit, numerous supporters of the opposition movement hit the streets, confronting the autocratic leadership of President Nicolás Maduro. In Caracas's heart, they echoed "Freedom" and brandished signs proclaiming "We aren't the opposition - we're the government." Protests against the manipulated poll outcomes also surfaced in various cities across the nation and internationally."
"Over the past 30 days, our resolve and strength have amplified, with our voices rising with each passing moment," wrote Edmundo González Urrutia, the opposition's presidential nominee, on X. "The Venezuelan populace yearns for peaceful transformation and a superior quality of life, and we will safeguard their wishes."
Following July 28's election, the pro-government electoral commission proclaimed Maduro, in power since 2013, as the winner. However, they have yet to disclose the intricate outcomes of the poll.
USA Applauds Opposition's Triumph
The opposition alleges the government has engaged in electoral fraud and celebrates González's victory. The United States and various Latin American nations have already endorsed González as the election's victor. The European Union and the Organization of American States also harbor suspicions about the authentic election results.
Maduro's reelection in 2018 found little international recognition. At that time, then-parliamentary president Juan Guaidó announced himself as the transitional president, but he failed to gain traction in the country – primarily due to the military's support for Maduro. Thus, he effectively managed to weather the protests during that period.
The international community's stance on the Election of the President has significantly shifted, with the opposition's claims of electoral fraud being widely acknowledged. Many countries, including the United States, have recognized Edmundo González Urrutia as the rightful winner of the election.
Given the controversial nature of the Election of the President, it is imperative that the pro-government electoral commission transparently reveals the detailed outcomes to restore public trust.