Venezuela's Presidential Election Campaign Kicks Off
The presidential election campaign in Venezuela officially began on Thursday, marking a significant moment as elections are scheduled for July 28. In Caracas, government supporters displayed images of former President Hugo Chavez and current President Nicolas Maduro, while mass demonstrations were organized across 70 cities to commemorate Chavez's 70th birthday. Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado led a nationwide march, despite being barred from running, and is now supporting Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia as her replacement.
Maduro's Promises and Campaign Strategy
Nicolas Maduro, who succeeded Chavez in 2013, is seeking a third term in office. In recent weeks, he has intensified his campaign activities, promising economic recovery after years of severe crisis that saw the economy shrink by 80% and led to the exodus of 7 million Venezuelans. Addressing his supporters in Caracas, Maduro emphasized the need for revolution and called for the lifting of international sanctions imposed on Venezuela. He aims to normalize international relations, despite part of the international community refusing to recognize his 2018 election victory.
Opposition's Determination and Public Sentiment
The opposition, led by Maria Corina Machado, remains resilient despite the challenges. Machado, who was banned from running, is now supporting Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia. She continues to attract large crowds across the country, promising change and freedom for Venezuela. Public sentiment appears to favor the opposition, with many citizens expressing their desire for change and frustration with the current government. The upcoming elections are seen as a crucial milestone in Venezuela's long-standing political crisis, with significant implications for the country's future.
- The capital, Caracas, witnessed a relatively calm day as the election campaign began, with businesses operating at half speed. The United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) mobilized 20,000 motorized vehicles, causing some congestion in the city center. Meanwhile, the opposition's caravan, led by Edmundo Gonzalez and Maria Corina Machado, faced delays due to police checks.
- Maduro's campaign lacks a unifying slogan or color, but the city is filled with graffiti and posters promoting his leadership. Chavismo organized 70 mobilizations nationwide, coinciding with Chavez's birthday. Despite the government's efforts, public turnout for Maduro's events has been lower compared to the opposition's rallies.
- Citizens like José Gregorio Da Silva, a 19-year-old medical student, expressed their desire for change and skepticism about Maduro's chances of winning without fraud. Others, like Guillermo González, an informal vendor, noted the loss of Chavismo's followers and the increasing public demand for change.
- Maduro's campaign also features a singing reality show to choose a campaign song, and he continues to draw on Chavez's legacy to garner support. However, the opposition's momentum and public discontent present significant challenges for his re-election bid.
