The prominent Venezuelan opposition leader, María Corina Machado, made a public return on Thursday, joining a massive wave of protests she herself orchestrated across the nation. "As promised, today we are on every street in Venezuela and around the world. I am here with you, until the end," she declared on her X account, accompanied by a video showing her amidst thousands of supporters.
Machado appeared in Chacao, Caracas, after spending months in hiding due to security concerns. Her X account also featured a defiant message, "This ends now. Venezuela will be free," alongside a photo of her participating in the demonstrations. "Never in my life have I felt so proud. People all over Venezuela took to the streets," she remarked upon arriving at the site where thousands had awaited her for hours.
Chanting "We are not afraid," a rallying cry echoed by the crowd alongside the former congresswoman, Machado emphasized, "All this strength we've built, growing stronger every day, prepares us for this final phase. Whatever they do tomorrow, they will only bury themselves further," she added.
Earlier, Machado had noted that Maduro's security forces were retreating in some cities in response to the overwhelming opposition gatherings nationwide. She celebrated this as a victory for Venezuelans demanding freedom. On January 9, thousands of Venezuelans poured into the streets in response to Machado's call for action.
The opposition leader framed this mobilization as a defining moment for both Nicolás Maduro's regime and the democratic governments worldwide, urging them to stand for democracy and the Constitution. This protest arises amidst heightened political tension, with Nicolás Maduro intensifying the military presence in Caracas and strategic locations across the country. Simultaneously, opposition leader Edmundo González, acknowledged by several nations as the legitimate president, has vowed to return to Venezuela to assume his mandate tomorrow.
On Thursday, González was in the Dominican Republic to participate in a Support for Democracy in Venezuela event, hosted by the country's president, Luis Abinader. Social media images depict citizens clashing with police barricades in various cities, chanting slogans against the regime and demanding democratic changes.
The situation continues to unfold as the international community closely monitors this critical juncture in Venezuela's political crisis.
Understanding the Venezuelan Protests
Why did María Corina Machado go into hiding?
María Corina Machado went into hiding due to security concerns amidst her opposition activities against Nicolás Maduro's regime.
What is the significance of the protests led by Machado?
The protests symbolize a critical moment in the fight for democracy in Venezuela, challenging the current regime and calling for international support.
How has Nicolás Maduro responded to the protests?
Nicolás Maduro has responded by reinforcing military presence in Caracas and other strategic areas to suppress the opposition's mass mobilizations.