Maduro\’s regime dominates Venezuela mayoral race amid opposition boycott
Venezuela’s Ruling Party Holds Majority of Mayoral Seats
In the latest local elections, the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) secured 285 of the 335 mayoral positions, according to projections set by President Nicolas Maduro.
Celebration and Controversy
- Maduro marked the victories early Monday in Caracas’ Bolivar Square.
- He declared, “Victory, popular victory! Democracy and peace triumph!”
Turnout and Allegations
The election authority, often cited as loyal to Maduro, reported a 44 % turnout—just over six million voters, though many polling stations recorded low participation.
Maduro’s Agenda
Within one year, Maduro has won the presidency, absolute parliamentary control, 23 of 24 governorships, and now municipal authority.
Opposition Response
Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who lost to Maduro in last year’s presidential race, posted on X: “What happened between July 28, 2024, and today? That day, 70 % of the country voted for EDMUNDO GONZALEZ, and today, 90 % said NO to MADURO.”
- A dissident wing of Machado’s movement participated, claiming victory in 50 mayoralties.
- Maduro labeled them “the new opposition,” while Machado branded them Maduro collaborators.
International Reaction
Maduro plans a Monday demonstration to celebrate the anniversary of his victory—an event unrecognized by the United States and a dozen other nations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on X that “Maduro is NOT the President of Venezuela, and his regime is NOT the legitimate government.” He described the president as the leader of a “narco-terror” organization.
In June, Washington and Caracas negotiated a prisoner swap, releasing 10 Americans and US residents imprisoned in Venezuela. The swap also freed 252 Venezuelan migrants detained in the notorious prison in El Salvador.
