CARACAS, Venezuela — Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was inaugurated for a third consecutive six-year term on Friday, despite widespread global denunciation declaring his recent electoral victory as illegitimate. As his administration tightens its grip on dissenters, the atmosphere surrounding the swearing-in was charged with tension.
The ceremony took place at the legislative palace, which was under heavy security provided by police, military, and intelligence personnel. Supporters of Maduro, many of whom wore shirts emblazoned with pro-government slogans, gathered in surrounding streets and nearby plazas.
While his supporters celebrated, his adversaries were organizing protests, particularly in light of reports that an aide to a significant opposition figure was temporarily detained following an anti-government demonstration in Caracas.
In the wake of these developments, both the U.K. and Canada have placed sanctions on senior Venezuelan officials. The British government targeted 15 high-ranking officials, including key members of the electoral service and military leaders, emphasizing that Maduro’s claim to power is fraudulent. Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that these sanctions are a clear indication of the U.K.’s refusal to tolerate Maduro’s oppressive regime, human rights violations, and threats to democracy.
Meanwhile, Canada announced sanctions against 14 current and former officials who have allegedly supported human rights abuses in the country. The inauguration also suffered from a lack of regional leadership presence, with many regional leaders absent, particularly those like Peru’s, who chose to recognize opposition leader Edmundo González as Venezuela’s legitimate leader instead of Maduro.
The coalition of Venezuelan opposition parties denounced Maduro’s inauguration as a “coup d’état,” arguing that he illegitimately obtained his third term through coercive means instead of the popular vote. They maintain that González was the true victor of the July election and called for persistent democratic resistance until the constitution and public will are upheld.
In response to Maduro’s inauguration and claims of legitimacy, the U.S. Treasury Department imposed additional sanctions on Venezuelan officials associated with human rights abuses. These latest penalties target prominent figures, including the president of Venezuela’s state-owned oil company, as well as other military and police leaders involved in suppressing dissent.
Moreover, the State Department raised its bounty for information leading to the arrests of Maduro and his interior minister to $25 million each, alongside a $15 million reward for information on the Defense Minister. This reflects ongoing U.S. efforts to hold Maduro accountable amidst allegations of electoral fraud.
In his address after taking the oath of office, Maduro insisted that his administration has followed constitutional guidelines, rejecting claims that he secured his election through illegitimate means. He criticized foreign influence, particularly from the U.S., vowing to safeguard national peace and sovereignty.
Among those present at Maduro’s inauguration were leaders from Cuba and Nicaragua, who likewise face international scrutiny for their governance. Notably absent were high-profile allies such as Colombia’s and Mexico’s leaders.
Despite his promises of return to Venezuela, opposition leader Edmundo González remains in the Dominican Republic, having not provided clear plans on how to seize power amid Maduro’s extensive control. González was previously touring Latin America in hopes of rallying support before his anticipated return.
Following his swearing-in, Maduro invoked revered figures of Venezuelan history, pledging to uphold his role as president. His supporters erupted in applause as he took the oath during the ceremony.
In conjunction with the inauguration, authorities initiated a suspension of flights and closed the borders with Colombia for 72 hours, coinciding with González’s announcements about his intentions to return.
Maduro’s lengthy tenure has witnessed more prominent international condemnation than ever before, a response to accusations that he lost his previous election by significant margins. He has previously faced criticism over his 2018 electoral win, which many countries, led by the U.S., described as fraudulent, subsequently recognizing Juan Guaidó as the legitimate leader. Guaidó and his supporters rallied against Maduro, pursuing efforts to establish a parallel government supported by international sanctions.
The current political turmoil, which has seen millions leave Venezuela in search of better living conditions, stems from a prolonged economic crisis characterized by staggering inflation and an overwhelming decline in living standards.
This past week, a series of arrests unfolded, with notable figures such as a former presidential hopeful and activists detained under dubious circumstances. Amidst the elections, allegations of widespread electoral fraud were prevalent, with opposition groups presenting evidence that contradicted official claims about ballot outcomes.
As Maduro takes office amidst these chaotic developments, the political landscape remains fraught with challenges and uncertainty for the future of Venezuela.
