Randy Malcom, a member of the popular Cuban musical group Gente de Zona, shared his thoughts on the proclamation of Nicolás Maduro as the president of Venezuela for another term.
"I was waiting until the end of the presidential elections in Venezuela to write this," the musician mentioned on his Instagram account.
"Unfortunately, they have stolen the taste of freedom from the Venezuelan people, and I hope it won't last for 65 more years like the dictatorship in Cuba," he continued.
The artist expressed his sorrow at seeing "how the dreams of freedom for millions are fading away, but understand that those bastards will never give up power willingly or with decency."
Nonetheless, he had a hopeful message for both Cubans and Venezuelans. "I hope that one day, both our peoples can be free and enjoy what we once were, a great democratic and free nation."
Protests Erupt After Election Results
On Monday, July 29, 2024, the Venezuelan electoral authority announced Maduro's reelection, a result that immediately sparked a wave of protests and rejection from the opposition and a significant portion of the population.
Public demonstrations against the election results reached such a point that in Coro, Falcón state, several protesters gathered at the Plaza Hugo Chávez, a symbolic site for Chavismo, and tore down a three-meter statue that had served as a landmark for political events in the region, reported La Tercera.
Meanwhile, the proclaimed president ordered the immediate expulsion of diplomatic representatives from Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, Panama, Peru, the Dominican Republic, and Uruguay, citing "interfering actions and statements" from their governments.
Key Questions About the Venezuelan Election and Protests
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the recent election in Venezuela and the ensuing protests, providing clarity on the situation.
Why did Randy Malcom criticize Maduro's reelection?
Randy Malcom criticized Maduro's reelection because he believes it robs the Venezuelan people of their freedom, drawing a parallel to the long-standing dictatorship in Cuba.
What actions did protesters take in Coro, Falcón state?
Protesters in Coro, Falcón state, gathered at the Plaza Hugo Chávez and tore down a three-meter statue symbolic of Chavismo as a form of protest against the election results.
Which countries' diplomats were expelled by Maduro?
Maduro ordered the expulsion of diplomats from Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, Panama, Peru, the Dominican Republic, and Uruguay due to what he termed as "interfering actions and statements" from their governments.