The president of Panama, José Raúl Mulinodemanded the “fully freed” of the Venezuelan opponent Maria Corina Machadoafter being violently intercepted by security agents in Caracas.
“Panama demands and demands full freedom of Maria Corina Machadoas well as respect for their personal integrity. “The dictatorial regime is responsible for his life!” expressed Mulino through the platform X.
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The arrest of Machado occurred after leading a massive protest in Chacao against the investiture of Nicolas Maduro for a third presidential term, questioned by accusations of electoral fraud.
Witnesses and local media indicated that members of the General Directorate of Military Counterintelligence (DGCIM) intercepted the motorcycles that were transporting the leader, and forced her to get off before being forcibly taken away.
During the operation, denounced as arbitrary, shots fired by regime agents were allegedly heard.
Edmundo González Urrutiapresident-elect of the Venezuelan opposition, who remains in exile, also raised his voice: “As president-elect, I demand the immediate release of María Corina Machado. “To the security forces that kidnapped her I say: don’t play with fire.”
For his part, the US senator Rick Scott condemned the incident, calling it an “atrocious attack” that requires “swift and forceful condemnation and action by the international community.” Scott He claimed to have contacted the Casa Blanca and to State Department to manage urgent measures to guarantee Machado’s release.
In Venezuelawhile thousands cried “Freedom!”, in support of the opposition, Chavismo sympathizers mobilized in support of Maduro. The political crisis continues to escalate, with González the distance seeking to return to the country to assume power, despite threats of capture.
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The Machado’s arrestconsidered one of the main opposition figures, marks a new chapter in the complex fight for democracy in Venezuela. Attracting the attention and pressure of regional and international leaders.
Panama demands and demands full freedom of @MariaCorinaYA as well as respect for their personal integrity. The dictatorial regime is responsible for your life!
— José Raúl Mulino (@JoseRaulMulino) January 9, 2025
CSAS
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