María Corina Machado announces return to Venezuela for 'final phase of transition'

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado declared she will soon return to her country to spearhead the "final phase of the democratic transition." Her announcement follows a significant meeting of Venezuelan leaders in Panama, where they endorsed the "Manifiesto de Panamá," a document aimed at unifying their strategy for restoring democracy.

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We leave Panama with a commitment to bring Venezuela a proposal for a great reconstruction of the Republic.

Machado described the Panama gathering as "historic," emphasizing its role in ratifying a shared plan for Venezuela's democratic recovery. She noted that the unity achieved, stemming from citizen movements beyond traditional party structures, marks a departure from previous efforts. Machado also revealed continuous communication with high-ranking U.S. administration officials, who share the goal of facilitating free elections in Venezuela.

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I feel that, although some people may feel disillusioned or disappointed, it is true, these processes are complex and we would all like it to be much faster. We would all like Chavismo to have never come to power. Facing this moment, we have to concentrate with focus on how to make this plan advance well, in an orderly manner.

Acknowledging potential public disappointment with the pace of change, Machado stressed the complexity of these processes. She urged focus on advancing the plan in an orderly manner, assuring that the goal is an "impeccable electoral process" where Venezuelans decide their own destiny. Machado indicated that her return is planned to "continue and culminate a cause," after fulfilling commitments made while abroad.

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We are going to arrive at an impeccable electoral process in which Venezuelans will decide our destiny. That is a commitment assumed by all. And for that, I am also returning to Venezuela soon.

She characterized Venezuela's current situation as "unsustainable," citing economic deterioration, inflation, and public service failures. However, Machado also pointed to gradual changes indicating a weakening of government control and repression, attributing this to recent political negotiations and events. She views the release of political prisoners and revelations of corruption as steps toward accountability within the ruling party.

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The situation is unsustainable.