Nicolas Maduro is set to begin his third six-year term amid allegations of electoral fraud and significant opposition protests. Despite claims from opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia of having won the election, Maduro maintains military support and a loyal following. Protests against his inauguration have resulted in violence and numerous arrests, highlighting the tense political atmosphere. Maduro faces immense economic challenges, including a drastic GDP contraction, and is under scrutiny for potential constitutional reforms that may jeopardize democracy.
Nicolas Maduro’s Third Term Amid Controversy
The Venezuelan president, Nicolas Maduro, is poised to take the oath of office for a third six-year term on Friday, backed by the military and a supportive administration. This comes despite fierce allegations of electoral fraud, ongoing international isolation, and a challenging economic landscape.
The inauguration ceremony is set to occur at midday, coinciding with a day marked by opposition protests contesting the 62-year-old socialist’s victory in the presidential election held on July 28. This electoral process was marred by tragic unrest and a significant number of arrests.
Opposition Claims and Support for Maduro
Opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia insists he won the election, declaring from the Dominican Republic that he is the “elected president.” However, he has yet to influence Maduro, who has governed the oil-rich nation since succeeding Hugo Chavez in 2013.
For weeks, a catchy slogan, “On the 10th, I swear with Maduro for the future,” has adorned many walls across the capital. In a show of support, the government organized a march in favor of Maduro, demonstrating the backing he commands from certain segments of the population.
“The only elected president in this country is Nicolas Maduro; he has the people’s support,” asserted Noeli Bolivar, a 28-year-old supporter.
Conversely, the opposition rallied thousands, chanting “we are not afraid” and brandishing signs proclaiming that “freedom is not begged for, it is conquered.” Confusion arose when opposition leader Maria Corina Machado was reportedly arrested but later released, claiming she was forcibly taken and made to record videos during her detention.
The government refuted these claims, with Attorney General Tarek William Saab labeling it a “psychological operation” designed to incite violence, while reminding the public that Machado is under investigation for criminal activities.
As the National Electoral Council (CNE) declared Maduro the winner with 52% of the vote—without releasing official documents due to an alleged cyber attack—protests erupted nationwide. These demonstrations were met with severe crackdowns, leading to 28 fatalities, over 200 injuries, and the arrest of 2,400 individuals on charges related to terrorism.
In the days leading up to the inauguration, a further wave of arrests took place, underscoring the tense political climate.
Maduro’s reliance on military support, a critical element of his regime, has been evident in previous protests that have resulted in substantial casualties. He has implemented a national security plan, mobilizing all security forces in response to purported threats against his administration.
As economist Mariano de Alba notes, “The military sector is even more crucial than it was before the elections… Without control of military institutions, the government would find itself with extremely precarious power.”
While promising economic recovery during his campaign, Maduro faces the daunting task of revitalizing a nation that has experienced an 80% contraction in GDP over the past decade. His international isolation complicates efforts to lift economic sanctions, making it imperative for him to navigate these challenges to access Venezuela’s vast oil reserves without succumbing to embargoes.
Moreover, Maduro has pledged to pursue constitutional reforms, which many NGOs argue could threaten democracy and impose repressive laws.