Edmundo González, the opposition leader and self-proclaimed president-elect of Venezuela, has embarked on a tour across Latin America to garner regional support ahead of his anticipated inauguration on January 10. This event will position him against the current president, Nicolás Maduro.
The tour kicked off in Buenos Aires, where González met with Argentine President Javier Milei. Known for his critical stance towards Maduro, Milei expressed support for González, whom he regards as the rightful winner of the July elections. According to the opposition, González decisively defeated the Chavista dictator.
On Friday, González is set to head to Uruguay, where he will meet with President Luis Lacalle Pou and Foreign Minister Omar Paganini. Opposition leader María Corina Machado rallied Venezuelans in Uruguay via social media, urging them to gather at 19 de abril and Joaquín Suárez streets to show solidarity in the fight for democracy in Venezuela.
In the days following, González plans to visit Panama and the Dominican Republic. In Panama, local authorities will welcome him, while in Santo Domingo, he is scheduled to meet with senior Dominican officials on January 9.
At 75 years old, González fled to Spain in September following threats of arrest by Maduro’s regime. Nonetheless, he has vowed to return to Venezuela to assume the presidency on January 10. Meanwhile, the Venezuelan government has issued a $100,000 reward for information leading to his capture.
González has declared himself the true victor of the July elections, disputing the official results which claimed a Maduro win, accusing him of electoral fraud. Post-election protests in Venezuela led to violent clashes with police, resulting in 28 deaths, 200 injuries, and over 2,400 arrests.
On Friday, Corina Machado called upon Venezuelans to mobilize in the days leading up to the inauguration, advocating for what she describes as the legitimate popular will expressed at the polls. Internationally, González has gained recognition from countries like the United States, which acknowledges him as Venezuela's president-elect. Argentina, refusing to recognize Maduro's re-election, stands as one of González's key allies in this struggle.
Despite international condemnation and sanctions, Maduro maintains power in Venezuela with support from a dwindling number of allies, including Russia, which remains one of the few countries to acknowledge his July electoral victory.
Key Questions on Venezuela's Political Crisis
What is the significance of Edmundo González's Latin American tour?
The tour is crucial for González to secure regional support and legitimacy as he prepares to challenge Nicolás Maduro's presidency in Venezuela.
How has the international community responded to Edmundo González's claim as president-elect?
Countries like the United States and Argentina have recognized González as the president-elect of Venezuela, while others, including Russia, continue to support Maduro.
What are the implications of the Venezuelan government's reward for Edmundo González's capture?
The reward highlights the Venezuelan government's efforts to suppress opposition and maintain Maduro's control, indicating the tense political climate in the country.