Venezuelans Rally for Opposition Leader Machado’s Return

Supporters of Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado gathered across the country on Sunday to demand her safe return and call for free, fair presidential elections. Hundreds of demonstrators, many wearing the sky-blue shirts associated with Machado’s Vente Venezuela party, rode motorcycles through the streets of Caracas and other major cities.

Protests also took place in state capitals including Valencia, Maracaibo, and Merida. Activists stressed that the movement extends beyond traditional political divisions. “This is not a matter of parties or politics,” said Flavio Valentini, a Vente Venezuela activist in Caracas who addressed the crowd with a megaphone. “This is a movement for the people and by the people.”

Demonstrators are pressing for a clear timeline for the 2027 presidential elections, chanting slogans for “freedom.” The calls come as Machado has been living in exile for the past nine months. She originally left Venezuela in December last year to travel to Oslo for the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Since then, reports indicate she has made seven unsuccessful attempts to re-enter the country.

Currently based in Panama, Machado faces obstacles to her return. While activists allege the Venezuelan government is blocking her entry, authorities have denied these claims. Machado had previously been barred by courts from running for office under the administration of President Nicolás Maduro. Although her stand-in candidate was widely considered to have won the disputed election, Maduro rejected the results and launched a crackdown on dissent, forcing Machado and dozens of other opposition leaders to flee.

The political landscape has shifted since the U.S. captured Maduro in January. The country is currently led by acting President Delcy Rodríguez, who has maintained close ties with Washington. Anthony Romero, a Vente Venezuela leader in the capital, expressed hope that the current transition would lead to democratic presidential elections.

“We hope this transition process leads us to presidential elections and consolidates a free, democratic country that will be the main ally of the United States,” Romero said.