The Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado engaged in a dialogue with Rosa María Payá, leader of Cuba Decide and a prominent figure in the opposition to the Cuban regime. The conversation between Machado in Caracas and Payá in Miami took place live on Wednesday afternoon and was broadcasted across various platforms, reaching a large audience.
Payá emphasized the importance of freedom in Venezuela as a catalyst for political change throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Machado explained that the electoral process was a significant challenge, as they managed to position Edmundo González as a candidate despite facing repression from Nicolás Maduro, lacking sufficient funds for the campaign, and having no advisors for the process. "It was truly historic," she stated.
"We are in a very complex phase because the Maduro regime is clinging to power by any means necessary, using the vilest mechanisms, now chasing Edmundo with a capture order for the elected president. This is the moment when we must trust that we have a robust strategy. We are united and will continue to move forward," Machado added.
The Fight for Individual Freedom
One of the key topics of the dialogue was the importance of individual freedom, the need for each person to overcome fear of the regime, defend their vote, and stay firm in the belief that change is possible. This is not about isolated cases but a multitude of people wanting to steer the country towards democracy.
"I don't know how much longer this process will take. It could be days, weeks, but we must be convinced that we will win. We will see this through to the end," Machado said.
On July 28, during the elections for governmental change in Venezuela, Machado sent a message to Payá, expressing her conviction in victory over Chavismo and her faith in an imminent transition to democracy in Cuba. "Very soon, I know that Cuba will be like us, on the eve of Freedom. Stay strong! I wished I could have you here and embrace in Venezuela tomorrow, but I know very soon we will welcome you in a liberated Venezuela," Machado declared.
Since August, Payá has repeatedly denounced that Nicolás Maduro employs state terrorism to consolidate his presidency after committing electoral fraud. "Just as the Castros do, Maduro is using the law, institutions, judges, and law enforcement to exert state terrorism," the Cuban activist expressed on the social network X.
In Venezuela, the government in power persecutes opponents with tactics similar to those used by the political police in Cuba. Payá called on all governments in Latin America and the world to recognize the sovereign will of the Venezuelan people as reflected in the elections and reaffirmed the support of Cuban opposition to Venezuelan counterparts because the fight for that land's freedom will not stop until the end.
Key Questions on the Dialogue Between María Corina Machado and Rosa María Payá
This dialogue between two prominent opposition figures raises several important questions about the political situation in Venezuela and Cuba. Here are some key questions and answers that provide further insight into the discussion.
Why is the freedom of Venezuela crucial for political change in the region?
Rosa María Payá emphasized that the freedom in Venezuela could serve as a catalyst for political change throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. It represents a significant step towards democracy that could inspire other nations in the region.
What challenges did Edmundo González face during the electoral process in Venezuela?
Edmundo González faced severe challenges including repression from Nicolás Maduro's regime, lack of sufficient campaign funds, and no advisors. Despite these hurdles, his candidacy was a historic achievement.
How does Nicolás Maduro employ state terrorism to maintain power?
Nicolás Maduro uses the law, institutions, judges, and law enforcement to exert state terrorism, similar to the tactics employed by the Castros in Cuba. This includes persecuting political opponents and manipulating legal systems to maintain control.
What message did María Corina Machado send to Rosa María Payá during the Venezuelan elections?
María Corina Machado sent a message to Rosa María Payá expressing her conviction in the victory over Chavismo and her faith in an upcoming democratic transition in Cuba. She also highlighted the solidarity between Venezuelan and Cuban opposition movements.