Venezuelans Face Pivotal Choice: Extend Maduro’s Rule Or Embrace Change

Venezuelans are casting their votes in a pivotal presidential election that will either continue the policies leading to the world’s worst peacetime economic collapse or usher in significant political change.

The outcome of Sunday’s election, whether it results in President Nicolás Maduro securing another term or former diplomat Edmundo González emerging victorious, will have widespread implications across the Americas. Both government critics and supporters have expressed a desire to emigrate if Maduro is re-elected.

More than 7.7 million people have already fled Venezuela, while an estimated 17 million Venezuelans are eligible to vote in the election. Edmundo González, who represents a coalition of opposition parties, was chosen in April as a substitute for Maria Corina Machado, a leading opposition figure who was barred from running by the Maduro-controlled Supreme Tribunal of Justice. This marks a rare moment of unity among opposition factions, who have come together behind a single candidate.

Polling stations opened at 6 a.m., but voters began lining up at some centers well before opening time, sharing water, coffee, and snacks as they waited for hours.

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CARACAS, Venezuela — With over 7.7 million Venezuelans having left the country, and an estimated 17 million eligible voters, the national election today holds immense significance. Venezuelans residing in neighboring countries, like Colombia and Peru, have been active in casting their votes. In Bogotá, approximately 4,300 Venezuelans participated at a local school, while in Barranquilla, 387 voters had a smooth experience. In Lima, 659 Venezuelans voted at the embassy, displaying flags and singing the national anthem. However, voting was not possible in Ecuador due to the closure of the Venezuelan embassy earlier this year in solidarity with Mexico following a police raid.

In Quito, Ecuador’s capital, many Venezuelans attended a religious ceremony at a church. In Cuenca, they gathered in a park chanting for “freedom” and “democracy.”

Minister of Defense Reports Peaceful Voting

CARACAS, Venezuela — Minister of Defense Chief General Vladimir Padrino López reported that, in the first six hours of voting, there were no significant incidents. He urged Venezuelans to avoid sharing unverified information about alleged violence at voting centers, emphasizing that social media reports are not always accurate.

Unitary opposition candidate Edmundo González expressed trust that the Venezuelan Armed Forces would respect the people’s will, despite their known support for President Nicolás Maduro. González, who replaced opposition leader María Corina Machado after she was barred from the race, believes the military would have much to lose if Maduro’s tenure were disrupted.

González Promises Change

CARACAS, Venezuela — After voting, opposition candidate Edmundo González praised the large turnout and expressed hope for a day of reconciliation. He emphasized the unity of Venezuelans and promised to create conditions for the nearly 8 million who have fled the country to return. González urged Venezuelans abroad to remain hopeful and assured them of a warm welcome should he win.

Chávez’s Daughter Reflects on His Legacy

CARACAS, Venezuela — María Gabriela Chávez, daughter of the late president Hugo Chávez, cast her vote while reflecting on what her father might have advised. The election coincides with what would have been Chávez’s 70th birthday. Chávez’s presence at the polls is seen as an effort to reinforce her father’s legacy and support Maduro, his chosen successor.

Medicine Shortages Influence Voting Preferences

CARACAS, Venezuela — Judy Oropeza, who lost her sister due to medicine shortages during Venezuela’s economic crisis, votes for change. Oropeza, who has struggled with low wages and high living costs, sees the election as a chance for improvement. Despite some progress, she remains hopeful for a future where Venezuelans don’t have to flee for basic needs.

Maduro’s Campaign Chief Confident in Mobilization

CARACAS, Venezuela — Jorge Rodríguez, Maduro’s campaign chief, expressed confidence in their strategy to boost voter turnout. The “1 x 10” strategy involves each supporter recruiting ten additional voters. Rodríguez described the campaign’s efforts as “well-oiled.”

Chávez’s Birthday Celebrated Amid Election

CARACAS, Venezuela — The election is being held on what would have been Hugo Chávez’s 70th birthday, an attempt by the ruling party to leverage his legacy. In a neighborhood mausoleum, supporters celebrated with a cake honoring the former president.

Most Voting Centers Operational

CARACAS, Venezuela — Elvis Amoroso, President of Venezuela’s National Electoral Council, reported that 95% of voting centers across the country are open. He assured that all polling place workers were present from the opening time.

Venezuelans Seek Change

CARACAS, Venezuela — In Petare, a working-class neighborhood in Caracas, voters lined up early, expressing hope for change. Judith Cantilla and Liana Ibarra, among others, voiced their desire for improvements in job opportunities, security, and public services. Many voters are looking for a reason to stay, while others are preparing to migrate if the situation does not improve.

Party Representatives Denied Access

CARACAS, Venezuela — At Venezuela’s largest voting center in Caracas, several party representatives were denied entry despite being authorized by the National Electoral Council. This has caused some confusion and delays.

Maduro Pledges to Respect Election Results

CARACAS, Venezuela — Incumbent President Nicolás Maduro stated he would recognize the election results and urged other candidates to do the same. He emphasized his commitment to respecting the official announcements and ensuring no chaos ensues.

Blinken Calls for Fair Elections

TOKYO, Japan — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for a fair election in Venezuela that reflects the true will of the people. Blinken acknowledged the international community’s role in monitoring the election and urged all parties to respect the democratic process.

Opposition Candidate Facing Criticism

CARACAS, Venezuela — Opposition candidate Daniel Ceballos faced backlash from supporters at a Caracas voting center. Ceballos, once a prominent anti-Maduro figure, has been criticized for his recent political stance, with many viewing him as compromised.

Supporters Still Back Maduro

CARACAS, Venezuela — Clarisa Machado, a Maduro supporter in Petare, expressed confidence in the government’s experience in handling crises. She believes the administration’s resilience will benefit Venezuela in the future.
(Includes inputs from online sources)

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