Omar González Moreno, a national leader from Vente Venezuela, has suggested that the devastating earthquakes on June 24 might signal a political turning point for Chavismo. These disasters have laid bare the extensive institutional decay that has accumulated over nearly three decades under the socialist regime.
In an interview with CiberCuba, González Moreno drew parallels between significant natural disasters and shifts in power within Venezuela.
"Historically, in Venezuela, such tragedies have often coincided with political change. Back in 1812, during the fight for independence, a quake altered the course of history, leading to the loss of the republic. In the 1960s, another earthquake resulted in a governmental shift. Even when Chávez came to power, it was preceded by a massive flood in Vargas that claimed thousands of lives. That marked the beginning of Chávez's era," he explained.
Historical Patterns and Political Shifts
With this historical backdrop, González Moreno expressed a cautious yet firm stance: "I don't claim to be a prophet or consult the stars, but it seems like a divine hand may have closed this chapter."
The earthquake toll from Wednesday stands at 920 deaths, over 3,360 injured, and more than 13,000 structures collapsed. The U.S. Geological Survey has issued a Red Alert, predicting that the final death toll could range from 10,000 to 100,000.
For González Moreno, the calamity is not solely a natural one: "This disaster has not only leveled buildings and claimed lives but also dismantled the Chavista regime in Venezuela. While nature is to blame for the quake, the lack of preparedness is a different matter entirely. There are those who must be held accountable."
Accountability and Institutional Collapse
He pointed fingers at Delcy Rodríguez and her brother Jorge Rodríguez—commonly referred to as "el Rodrigato"—as the culprits behind the institutional collapse.
"This situation has exposed to the entire world the devastation caused by these individuals, including Delcy and Jorge Rodríguez. They must be removed from power," he asserted.
González Moreno acknowledged that while the immediate focus of the populace is survival, demands for accountability will soon follow: "Right now, the shock is overwhelming. Any Venezuelan would be choked with emotion witnessing this. But as time passes, they will realize that this situation cannot persist, and they will demand justice."
The Role of the Venezuelan Diaspora
Addressing the role of the Venezuelan diaspora, which exceeds 9.1 million globally, the leader confirmed that Vente Venezuela is already coordinating aid with universities, unions, and businesses within the country: "We're actively mobilizing efforts everywhere."
The political climate adds urgency to the situation: July 3 marks 180 days since Delcy Rodríguez assumed the interim presidency, a deadline that mandates declaring the president’s absolute absence and calling for new elections.
González Moreno warned that any attempt to extend this interim period would break constitutional law.
"Right now, the priority is saving lives. But soon, they will demand accountability, and those responsible must face consequences," concluded the Vente Venezuela leader.
Understanding the Political Impact of Venezuela's Earthquakes
How have natural disasters historically affected political change in Venezuela?
In Venezuela, natural disasters have often preceded significant political shifts. For example, a major earthquake in 1812 influenced the course of the country's independence, and similar events in the 1960s led to changes in government. Such patterns suggest a historical link between natural calamities and political transformation.
What is the potential impact of the recent earthquakes on the Chavista regime?
The recent earthquakes have exposed significant institutional failures under the Chavista regime. This exposure, combined with the natural disaster's destruction, could lead to increased calls for political change and accountability, potentially marking a turning point for the regime.