The United States government has once again pressured the National Electoral Council (CNE) of Venezuela, controlled by the chavistas, to release official evidence of the results from the July 28 elections, in which Nicolás Maduro was declared the winner.
"More than three weeks after the July 28 elections, Nicolás Maduro and his representatives continue to refuse to publish the original records that reflect the true aspirations of the Venezuelan people for their country's future," wrote Brian A. Nichols, Under Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, on social media platform X.
Additionally, the diplomat stated that the "United States will hold accountable those who facilitate electoral fraud and repression." He reaffirmed that "the will of the Venezuelan people must be respected."
The proclamation of Nicolás Maduro as the election winner has been met with skepticism by most democratic nations, accusing the regime of irregularities in the voting process, an issue that remains unresolved nearly a month later.
Global Protests and Reactions
Last Saturday, Venezuelan citizens and supporters in more than 150 cities worldwide participated in a massive global protest to denounce the electoral fraud. In what they called the "Great World Protest for Truth," demonstrators demanded transparency in the election results and affirmed that Venezuela had won, supporting opposition candidate Edmundo González and opposition leader María Corina Machado.
A few weeks ago, it was reported that the United States had offered Maduro a significant deal with substantial guarantees for his personal safety if he accepted his defeat and initiated a peaceful transition to democracy in Venezuela. The Biden administration was reportedly willing to offer the Venezuelan dictator "whatever he wants" to halt the repression of opponents and protesters, present the election records transparently, and recognize the Venezuelan people's desire for change.
However, Maduro rejected this proposal and has continued his repression and violence against those who do not accept his victory, including issuing threatening rhetoric against opponents and citizens who do not share his dictatorial views.
FAQs about the Electoral Fraud in Venezuela
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the recent electoral fraud in Venezuela and the international response:
What evidence is the United States demanding from Venezuela's National Electoral Council?
The United States is demanding that Venezuela's National Electoral Council release the original records of the July 28 election results, which they believe will reflect the true will of the Venezuelan people.
What was the "Great World Protest for Truth" about?
The "Great World Protest for Truth" was a global demonstration by Venezuelan citizens and supporters in over 150 cities, demanding transparency in the election results and supporting opposition figures like Edmundo González and María Corina Machado.
Did the United States offer Nicolás Maduro a deal?
Yes, the United States reportedly offered Maduro a deal with significant personal guarantees if he accepted his defeat and initiated a peaceful transition to democracy. However, Maduro rejected this proposal.