As the January 10, 2025, date approaches, when Nicolás Maduro intends to begin a third presidential term in Venezuela, the nation is engulfed in severe political and social tension. The announcement by Edmundo González Urrutia, an opposition leader recognized by various international entities as the president-elect, to return to the country to assume office has prompted Maduro's government to ramp up security and control measures nationwide.
Recent reports suggest that the Directorate General of Military Counterintelligence (DGCIM) has seized control of La Carlota Air Base in Caracas, led by Colonel Alexander Granko Arteaga, known for his loyalty to the regime and accused of human rights violations. This was disclosed on social media by Tamara Suju, a human rights lawyer and executive director of the Casla Institute, who noted that hundreds of victims have reported Granko Arteaga to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against humanity. Suju highlighted his leadership in "Operation TUN TUN," a widespread repression that imprisoned numerous individuals regardless of their physical condition or age.
"Granko Arteaga answers to the head of the DGCIM, Nicolás Maduro, and its director general, Major General Javier Marcano Tábata. Their cowardice and incompleteness are evident as they deploy intelligence forces to 'patrol' and take over Caracas to help the tyrant cling to power," the expert observed.
This action by Maduro's regime is part of a broader strategy to bolster military presence in the capital and other strategic regions, aiming to prevent potential opposition movements and ensure the current government's continuity. The militarization of Caracas has significantly impacted daily life, with extensive vehicle checks on major access roads causing traffic jams extending up to 15 kilometers.
Security personnel conduct thorough inspections of each vehicle to identify potential threats to the established order, heightening the sense of insecurity and fear among the populace. Simultaneously, the government has issued arrest warrants against González Urrutia, accusing him of crimes such as conspiracy, usurpation of functions, and money laundering, among others.
A reward of $100,000 has been offered for information leading to his capture, aiming to diminish his influence and deter his return to the country. Despite these measures, González Urrutia has embarked on an international tour to garner support for his fight for democracy in Venezuela.
After meeting with Argentine President Javier Milei in Buenos Aires, where he was welcomed by a crowd of exiled Venezuelans, González Urrutia expressed his resolve to return to Venezuela to assume the mandate he claims was granted to him by the people in the July 2024 elections.
The international community is closely monitoring these developments. Countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Ecuador, and Costa Rica have recognized González Urrutia as the legitimate president of Venezuela, while other governments remain cautious amid the South American nation's political crisis.
In this context, human rights organizations have voiced concerns over the increasing repression and militarization in the country, warning of potential violations of citizens' fundamental freedoms. The situation in Venezuela is becoming increasingly critical, with an uncertain outcome in the coming days.
Understanding the Political Turmoil in Venezuela
What are the reasons behind the increased military presence in Venezuela?
The military presence has been intensified to prevent potential opposition movements and ensure the continuation of Nicolás Maduro's government amid political tensions surrounding the return of Edmundo González Urrutia.
How has the international community responded to the situation in Venezuela?
Several countries, including Argentina, Uruguay, Ecuador, and Costa Rica, have recognized Edmundo González Urrutia as the legitimate president of Venezuela, while others have taken a more cautious approach.
What impact has the militarization had on everyday life in Caracas?
The militarization has led to extensive vehicle checks on major access routes, causing significant traffic congestion and increasing the public's sense of insecurity and fear.