BTN News: In recent days, the election campaign in Venezuela has heated up. The usual aggressive words of Diosdado Cabello, vice president of the ruling party, have been joined by President Nicolás Maduro and his top political helper, Jorge Rodríguez. The government, based at the Palacio de Miraflores, is surprised by the latest polls. These polls show opposition candidate Edmundo González ahead of Maduro. They did not think that an unknown candidate could gain so much support so quickly. González has quickly taken almost all the political support from María Corina Machado. She is a leading opposition figure who is not allowed to run in the presidential elections on July 28.
A New Challenger is Gaining Support Unexpectedly
The ruling party’s plan in recent days has been clear. Maduro and Rodríguez have talked about González’s age, 74. They mock him as the “gallo pataruco” while calling the 61-year-old Maduro the “gallo pinto.” During a rally in Lara, Maduro did not hold back, saying, “There’s an old man who wants to take power.” González answered calmly, saying he wants a future where the president does not use insults. This shows a big difference in their campaign styles.
Public Confrontations and Travel Restrictions Add to the Drama
González has faced hostility not only from political leaders but also from public employees who support Cabello. They worry that their jobs depend on the continuation of the chavismo regime. Unlike Machado, who travels by road because she is banned from using commercial flights, González has been traveling with his wife on commercial flights in economy class. However, his latest trip to Barinas was troubled by an incident with employees of the state airline Conviasa. They publicly criticized him, saying he destroyed the economy and hinted they might not let him board his flight. This scene was captured on video and widely shared on social media. Despite the provocation, González stayed silent.
Campaign Dynamics Show Strong Mobilization of the Opposition
The campaign started on Thursday with rallies by both Maduro and González in Caracas. The opposition’s strong turnout is like the big rallies in 2019 led by Juan Guaidó. This shows a significant change in public feeling. The opposition’s strong turnout shows that support for the chavismo regime is going down. It also shows that Machado’s support has moved to González, now the official candidate of the Democratic Unity Roundtable (MUD). However, even with clear numbers, the political future is uncertain. Colombian President Gustavo Petro is trying to get both sides to promise to respect the election results, no matter what happens. Meanwhile, the United States has started talks with Maduro again.
Campaign Strategies and Promises by Both Sides
The government’s campaign plan includes criticizing its own administration. They focus on issues like corruption and neglect but blame the opposition for economic problems. They say the opposition supported U.S. sanctions. The ruling party insists that only their victory can ensure peace in the country. They repeat this to avoid thinking about a possible loss. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino has said that the Bolivarian revolution cannot be stopped now.
Uncertain Future and Calls for Institutional Integrity in the Nation
González has addressed the uncertainties about a possible opposition win through social media. He stresses the need for national reinstitutionalization without political discrimination or persecution, which he calls “social justice.” This aims to ease chavismo fears of retribution once out of power. González supports an orderly and peaceful government transition. This includes all political forces, including current government supporters, within the constitutional rules.
Message to the Armed Forces and Political Vision for Venezuela
On the day remembering Venezuela’s Independence Act, González called on the Armed Forces to respect the people’s will. He is sure they will do their duty. He also talked about plans for renewing Parliament and regional elections set for 2025. These are part of the broader plan for political change in Venezuela.
Conclusion of the Campaign and Future Prospects of the Nation
Venezuela is at a crucial point, with rising campaign tensions showing deep political divides. As the election nears, both the ruling party and the opposition are increasing their efforts. International mediators and observers are watching closely. The result of this electoral fight will shape Venezuela’s future. It highlights the importance of fairness, respect for institutions, and peaceful transition in a deeply divided nation.
