Venezuela’s political saga continues as elections have once again thrust the country into the international spotlight. Nicolás Maduro’s government declared victory in the parliamentary elections held last month, a result met with widespread skepticism from both domestic and international observers. Opposition leader María Corina Machado, from the Democratic Unity Roundtable, has presented evidence suggesting that her party won 70% of the vote. Despite these claims, Maduro proclaimed himself president and threatened citizens with consequences if he were not elected. Since then, the opposition has been hiding for five days until recently re-appearing at a rally in Caracas. This controversy has escalated tensions, making the political landscape increasingly volatile and impacting the safety and stability of the nation.

Internationally and locally, this election has sparked debates and calls for action. Opposition leader María Corina Machado and candidate Edmundo González publicly challenged the election results, holding up vote tally sheets during another protest in Caracas. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated, “It is clear that President Nicolás Maduro lost the popular vote,” highlighting serious concerns over the election’s integrity. Additionally, the cyber-hacker group Anonymous has declared war, stating, “Left-wing dictator or right-wing dictator, there is no such thing as a good dictator. Defending tyrants is defending tyrants over a ‘dream’ and, often, the corpses of the people upon whom they build their wealth and power.” Human Rights Watch condemned the election, citing “widespread malnutrition, lack of access to medical care, and arbitrary detention of political opponents” as evidence of the regime’s failure.

The recent elections in Venezuela raise serious concerns about the country’s democratic integrity and political future. Maduro’s actions, including threats to citizens and opposition leaders, highlight the authoritarian nature of his regime. Following the recent opposition protest in Caracas, Maduro plans to change his approach by also having his supporters protest “peacefully,” hoping this will gain international recognition and respect for his presidency. Despite the opposition presenting evidence of severe discrepancies in the democratic process, Venezuela’s electoral body has declared Maduro president. Opposition leaders were advised to seek asylum. However, they remain committed to seeking justice for their voters. The international community has refused to recognise the election results, emphasising the need for opposition voters’ voices to be heard. Furthermore, Anonymous has taken down many of the regime’s websites and official platforms. A resistance movement is rising both internationally and locally to ensure democracy prevails in Venezuela.

The recent elections in Venezuela are part of a long-standing political and economic crisis. Maduro has been in power since 2013 after Hugo Chávez’s death and has faced controversial elections, human rights abuse allegations, and growing authoritarianism. His 2018 re-election was widely condemned as fraudulent, leading to protests and international sanctions. In 2019, opposition leader Juan Guaidó declared himself interim president, receiving recognition from over 50 countries, but Maduro retained control with military and international support from Russia and China.

In preparation for last month’s elections, many Venezuelans educated themselves on their rights and responsibilities and participated in monitoring activities to prevent fraud. Civil society organisations and independent groups provided training and resources for citizens to observe the polls and report irregularities. The National Electoral Council (CNE) supported these efforts with the presence of international observers alongside local monitors. However, significant challenges persisted, including restrictions and harassment of opposition figures and the government’s control over media, complicating efforts for a fully free and fair election.

In conclusion, the Venezuelan population is demonstrating widespread resistance to Maduro’s “presidency,” seeking justice for the hardships endured under Chávez and now Maduro. The international community must act against the violence and murders of protesters by legitimising those who have been democratically elected. Diplomatic pressure, targeted sanctions, and support for civil society organisations are essential. The global community must move beyond mere observation and actively support Venezuelans in their peaceful quest for justice and democracy. By empowering this growing resistance, we can provide the tools needed to peacefully and democratically challenge Maduro’s regime.