Denied bail, Maduro shifts to mass mobilization: I represent the dignity of millions
With former subordinates no longer reliable, Maduro turns to the people.
At the end of September, Venezuela’s acting president, Rodríguez, arrived in New York for a UN General Assembly speech and bilateral talks with U.S. officials. During her stay, she made no effort to visit her imprisoned former superior—the constitutionally recognized president of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro—detained in a New York prison.
To the contrary, in her address at the UN, Rodríguez boldly claimed that Venezuela is undergoing a transition toward “full democracy,” describing the country as entering a new era of “rebirth”—a statement seemingly at odds with her role within Maduro’s administration.
Faced with what appears to be a complete defection by a leader he once nurtured, Maduro has redirected his appeal to broader public sentiment. On his social media platforms, he stated that he and his wife have endured 282 days of unlawful detention and arbitrary treatment, with his wife suffering serious health deterioration, yet denied bail for medical care.
October has arrived, marking more than half a year since their abduction. History continues its course. And this chapter of history is being written through their ordeal of unjust imprisonment.
Maduro asserts they remain unbroken, upholding dignity in solidarity with millions around the world who persist in resistance. He expresses pride in this stance. He calls on all oppressed peoples globally to unite in striving toward freedom and building a new world.
Finally, Maduro cited a well-known passage from Martin Luther King Jr.: “With this faith, we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope.”
While ideals may be noble, reality remains harsh. If Venezuelan authorities show no concern for the fate of their own president, it is even less likely that other nations can intervene—even if they wish to.
Nevertheless, we firmly oppose any act violating international law. We await the day when Maduro and his wife are released without charge.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1878834617939273/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.