Six Venezuelan opposition leaders have spent 100 days in the Argentine embassy in Caracas.They face accusations of terrorism, conspiracy, and treason.
Five were integral to Edmundo Gonzlez Urrutias campaign, supported by Mara Corina Machado.This campaign threatens Chavismo, the political movement Hugo Chvez started 25 years ago.The accused include Magalli Meda, campaign head; Claudia Macero, communications chief; Pedro Urruchurtu, international relations coordinator;In addition, Omar Gonzlez, Anzotegui campaign chief; and Humberto Villalobos, electoral logistics chief.100 Days in Hiding: Venezuelan Opposition Leaders Still Seek Refuge in Argentine Embassy.
(Photo Internet reproduction)Jorge Rodrguez, president of the National Assembly, accuses them of planning election-day violence.These leaders belong to Vente Venezuela, Machados party.
During the crackdown, authorities arrested and imprisoned Henri Alviarez and Dinora Hernndez, top Vente Venezuela officials.Previously, some had sought asylum in the Dutch embassy after successful opposition primaries on October 22, which the government ignored.Repression has intensified since January.
Fernando Martnez Mottola, a key Unitary Platform organizer, also sought refuge in the Argentine embassy.He had participated in Norwegian-mediated political dialogue.
However, the Maduro government denied him safe conduct, despite prior agreements.Political Turmoil in VenezuelaAttorney General Tarek William Saab announced their charges on television.
He accused them of conspiracy, violence, and plotting against President Nicols Maduro.Following this, authorities imprisoned Vente Venezuela regional coordinators in various states.
In total, authorities have jailed 46 opposition figures since late last year.Inside the embassy, the leaders continue their political work under strict constraints.
They face challenges in maintaining routines without infringing on shared spaces.Initially, their legal defense struggled with the charges.
These included incitement to hatred, treason, conspiracy, terrorism, and money laundering.They rejected a safe conduct agreement that barred them from political activism in exile and required cooperation with Venezuelan justice.Venezuelas election campaign shows stark contrasts.
President Maduro enjoys resources, public space access, and legal advantages.He dominates the media and public discourse.
Conversely, the opposition relies on grassroots efforts and social media.Despite the challenges, Gonzlez Urrutia leads in voter intention polls, averaging 50% to Maduros 26%.