In a recent video message, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado urged supporters to take to the streets across the country to demand the resignation of President Nicolás Maduro. Machado emphasized that Maduro will not voluntarily step down and that the people must exert pressure to force him out of power.
Machado instructed supporters to gather for demonstrations on Thursday, the day before Maduro's next presidential term is scheduled to begin. This call to action came shortly after the government reiterated its intention to arrest retired diplomat Edmundo González, who claims to have won against Maduro in the previous year's election.
Expressing her determination, Machado stated, “Maduro is not going to leave on his own. We must make him leave with the strength of a population that never gives up.” She encouraged supporters to raise their voices and stand firm against the current regime.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly leader Jorge Rodriguez announced that the legislative body would seek the immediate arrest of González if he sets foot on Venezuelan soil. This threat followed the government's offer of a $100,000 reward for information on González's whereabouts.
González, who has been in exile in Spain since September, has declared his intention to return to Venezuela to be sworn in for the upcoming presidential term. However, the government has made it clear that any attempt by González to enter the country will result in his immediate arrest.
The political turmoil in Venezuela has garnered international attention, with the U.S. and several European governments rejecting the results of the last election and recognizing González as the legitimate winner. Despite these challenges, Maduro has received an invitation from the National Assembly to be sworn in for a third term.
The situation remains tense as opposition forces mobilize to challenge Maduro's authority and push for democratic change in the country.
