Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has made it clear that he intends to mold the opposition in his country to his liking. In a televised statement on Monday, January 8, Maduro expressed his desire for a new, strong opposition in Venezuela that aligns with constitutional values and is independent of foreign influences.
“I have an objective and that is for a new opposition to emerge very strongly in Venezuela that is truly married to constitutional values and independent of foreign mandates, that does not have to pick up a phone to talk to the White House to make decisions,” Maduro said.
Maduro also took the opportunity to criticize Venezuelan democratic leaders, accusing them of acting as agents of imperial governments and serving foreign interests. He specifically mentioned opposition figures such as Borges, Machado, López, and Capriles, stating that they have acted to impose the economic and power interests of the United States.
Despite his critical stance, Maduro expressed optimism for the future of the Venezuelan opposition, saying, “Happy will be the day for Venezuela when democratic and independent options from the opposition are consolidated. We will not get tired of preaching.”
The Venezuelan leader’s remarks come as he received the notification of the beginning of the 2024-2025 period of sessions of the 2020 National Assembly. Maduro’s comments indicate a continued effort to shape the political landscape in Venezuela in a manner that is favorable to his administration.