Venezuela’s government and opposition concluded the official presidential campaign season with large demonstrations in the capital city of Caracas. The events, held three days before the upcoming election, highlighted the stark contrasts between the top contenders in terms of resources and support.
Incumbent President Nicolás Maduro, vying for a third term, addressed a massive crowd from a grand stage set up on a major city road. He energized his supporters with musical performances and dance interludes during his speech, portraying himself as a proponent of peace while labeling his opponents as instigators of violence.
Maduro questioned the crowd about which candidate could ensure peace and stability, despite his own recent warnings of potential post-election turmoil. On the other hand, opposition figures Edmundo González Urrutia and Maria Corina Machado attracted significantly fewer supporters. They traversed the city atop a truck-mounted platform until reaching a middle-class neighborhood, facing challenges due to limited funding and government restrictions.
The opposition's sound system on Thursday was inadequate to reach all attendees, hampering their ability to convey their message effectively. State media extensively covered Maduro's rally while disregarding the opposition's activities.
The upcoming election poses a significant challenge for the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela, with Maduro facing widespread unpopularity among voters who hold him responsible for the country's prolonged crisis. In a notable shift, major opposition parties have united to endorse a single candidate, González, after years of electoral boycotts and internal divisions.
