BTN News: Argentina has spoken out against the recent presidential elections in Venezuela, calling them fraudulent. In a press conference held at the Casa Rosada, the seat of the Argentine government, presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni highlighted the need for transparency in the vote recount process. This announcement came after the Venezuelan National Electoral Council (CNE) declared Nicolás Maduro the winner. He secured his third consecutive six-year term, but the opposition claims there were irregularities.
Adorni was clear in his condemnation, describing the situation as “electoral fraud perpetrated by the regime of dictator Nicolás Maduro.” He stressed that Argentina demands full transparency in the recount of votes. Adorni insisted that Argentina would not endorse any outcome without the support of unbiased international observers. “We demand total transparency in the recount of votes,” Adorni said. “We will not consolidate any result without the support of independent observers, certainly not those aligned with the Chavista regime.”
While Adorni was speaking, the Argentine Ministry of Foreign Affairs was in discussions with other countries in the region to examine the alleged fraud. Adorni pointed out that the Venezuelan people had been peaceful during the election. He mentioned that opposition records indicated a large majority voted for change, preferring a free and capitalist world over dictatorship.
The electoral dispute has caused controversy not only in Venezuela but also throughout Latin America. Former Argentine President Mauricio Macri urged Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to speak out against the Venezuelan election outcome. Adorni agreed and called on regional leaders to denounce what had happened in Venezuela. “We are minimizing what is happening in Venezuela. It is a sad story, not only for the millions of Venezuelans living there or those who have fled the country but also for a region that yearns for more democracy and fewer fascist actions,” he remarked.
The Argentine government also criticized Maduro’s recent insults directed at Argentine President Javier Milei. Following the election results, Maduro referred to Milei in a derogatory manner during his victory speech. Maduro challenged Milei by saying, “Cowardly bug, you can’t stand a round with me!” He also led chants against Milei, calling him a “Nazi fascist” and a “sell-out,” while his supporters echoed, “Milei, trash, you are the dictatorship!”
Early on Monday, the CNE reported that Maduro had won 51.20% of the votes compared to 44.20% for opposition candidate Edmundo González Urrutia, with 80% of the votes counted. However, opposition leader MarÃa Corina Machado contested these figures. She claimed that with over 40% of the ballots processed, the candidate from the Democratic Unity Platform (PUD) had secured 70% of the votes, compared to Maduro’s 30%.
The ongoing political drama in Venezuela shows the deep divisions and challenges the country faces. The Argentine government’s strong condemnation and call for international scrutiny highlight the wider regional implications of Venezuela’s disputed election. They also underscore the ongoing struggle for democratic integrity in Latin America.
In summary, Argentina has positioned itself as a strong critic of the recent Venezuelan elections, calling for greater transparency and international oversight. This stance reflects a broader regional concern for democratic processes and the rule of law. The outcome of these elections not only impacts Venezuela but also reverberates across Latin America.
