The Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado spoke out this Sunday regarding the departure of former presidential candidate Edmundo González from Venezuela to Spain. "His life was in danger, and the increasing threats, summons, arrest warrant, and even attempts of blackmail and coercion he has faced show that the regime has no scruples or limits in its obsession to silence and try to break him," Machado stated in a communiqué published on her social media account.
Previously, the opposition leader had endorsed the victory of the Democratic Unity Platform (PUD) on July 28, a political alliance comprising civil society, unions, retired military personnel, and political parties united against Chávez's regime. She continued by saying, "In the face of this brutal reality, it is necessary for our cause to preserve his freedom, integrity, and life," referring to Edmundo González.
Machado denounced that the persecution by Maduro's regime "is further evidence of its criminal nature, which delegitimizes and sinks them more every day," not just concerning the visible faces of the opposition movement but also other individuals imprisoned by the Chavistas. Machado asserted that Edmundo would be sworn in as the Constitutional President of Venezuela and Commander-in-Chief of the National Armed Forces on January 10, 2025.
"Let this be very clear to everyone: Edmundo will fight from abroad alongside our diaspora, and I will continue to do so here, with you," she said categorically, calling on Venezuelans and the international community for "calm, courage, and determination."
This Sunday, the Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares announced Edmundo's journey to Spain, clarifying that it was at the request of the former presidential candidate. Last Monday, September 2, the Venezuelan Prosecutor's Office issued an arrest warrant against Edmundo, accusing him of usurpation of functions, forging public documents, incitement to disobey laws, association to commit crimes, and conspiracy. International condemnation was swift.
At the beginning of August, a document signed by the Attorney General Tarek William Saab initiated a criminal investigation against María Corina and Edmundo González, accusing them of "incitement to insurrection."
Key Questions about Edmundo González's Departure and María Corina Machado's Response
To provide more clarity on the situation surrounding Edmundo González's departure from Venezuela and María Corina Machado's reaction, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
Why did Edmundo González leave Venezuela?
Edmundo González left Venezuela due to threats to his life and increasing persecution by Maduro's regime, including arrest warrants and attempts at blackmail and coercion.
What is María Corina Machado's stance on Edmundo González's departure?
María Corina Machado supports Edmundo's decision to leave Venezuela for his safety, and she calls for calm, courage, and determination among Venezuelans and the international community.
What accusations has the Venezuelan government made against Edmundo González?
The Venezuelan government has accused Edmundo González of usurpation of functions, forging public documents, incitement to disobey laws, association to commit crimes, and conspiracy.
When is Edmundo González expected to be sworn in as President of Venezuela?
Edmundo González is expected to be sworn in as the Constitutional President of Venezuela and Commander-in-Chief of the National Armed Forces on January 10, 2025.