Machado Stronger Than Before July 28 Elections, Opposition Coalition Says

María Corina Machado holds a significantly stronger political position now than she did prior to the July 28, 2024 elections, where Edmundo González emerged victorious with her backing, stated Roberto Enríquez, executive secretary of the Plataforma Unitaria. This assessment follows strategic meetings between coalition representatives and Machado in Panama, aimed at bolstering international support and unifying democratic forces for Venezuela's transition.

Enríquez, who also leads the Copei party, affirmed that Machado remains the unitary candidate for any future presidential elections, citing the overwhelming mandate she received in the October 2023 opposition primaries. However, he emphasized that the coalition's foundation of democracy and pluralism means any leader can present a candidacy. "Within the coalition led by María Corina Machado, there is plurality and differences. Now, there is a central commitment, which is democracy," Enríquez told El Nacional.

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Within the coalition led by María Corina Machado, there is plurality and differences. Now, there is a central commitment, which is democracy.

Following Nicolás Maduro's capture and the expiration of the deadline for new presidential elections, Enríquez refrained from speculating on the timeline for organizing the electoral process. Reports suggest elections might be delayed until 2027 due to pending technical tasks, including establishing a new National Electoral Council, purifying the electoral registry, and enabling expatriate Venezuelans to vote.

The opposition is reportedly nearing the third phase of a transition plan, which includes the possibility of Edmundo González not assuming the presidency and Machado's return to Venezuela. No specific date has been set for her return, but the coalition remains focused on advancing democratic reforms.

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Whoever wants to present another candidacy will be within their rights.