Venezuelan Military Leaders Demand Respect for Election Results, Condemn Power Grabs

A coalition of retired Venezuelan military officers is forcefully rejecting any attempts to subvert the will of the people following the July 28th presidential election, asserting that Edmundo González Urrutia was demonstrably chosen as the nation’s next leader.

A powerful statement released by the Military Institutional Front (FIM), comprised of 231 retired officers, condemns any “political solution” that disregards the outcome of the election, where nearly 7.5 million Venezuelans cast their votes for González Urrutia. The FIM views any deviation from honoring the election results as a betrayal of the Venezuelan people and a historical misstep.

Founded 25 years ago, the FIM is led by GB (Ex) Juan Antonio Herrera Betancourt, alongside Generals (Ex) Teodoro Díaz Zavala and GB (GN) Rafael Vera Ruiz. Other key figures include GB (Ex) Juan Ferrer Barazarte (Army), Rear Admiral Elías Buchzser Cabriles (Navy), GB (Av) Eduardo Arturo Caldera Gómez (Aviation), and GB (GN) Simón Figuera Pérez (National Guard).

According to officers spanning various ranks, from generals to first lieutenants, it is “inconceivable” that former leaders would prioritize personal gain over democratic principles. They accuse some of actively supporting what they term a “usurpation” of power and ignoring the clear electoral victory achieved on July 28, 2024.

The FIM’s statement also expresses outrage at what they perceive as envy and resentment from those displaced by the rising popularity of Nobel Peace Prize nominee, María Corina Machado. They highlight her success in “winning the hearts of Venezuelans” through dedication, resilience, and integrity, culminating in what they describe as the “most resounding electoral victory in recent times.”

The officers emphasize they are speaking in their capacity as citizens, upholding their constitutional duty to defend Venezuela’s institutions, independence, and territorial integrity. They point to the fact that active military personnel overwhelmingly favored González Urrutia in voting centers designated for their use. The retired soldiers assert that the FIM represents the “ardent will” of over 80% of voters, a mandate enshrined in the Venezuelan Constitution.

“On July 28, that town chose Edmundo González Urrutia as elected president,” the statement reads, “and that sovereign decision assigned him the duty of assume leadership of the country. Not another person, nor a meeting, nor an improvised association.”

The FIM insists the decision reached on July 28th is “final, non-negotiable and not subject to modification.” They warn that the current situation could invite external intervention to address escalating criminal activity and protect regional security. They also note reports that the current government has rejected offers of unrestricted access to Venezuela’s natural resources in exchange for remaining in power – a claim echoed by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding an alleged offer from Nicolás Maduro.

The retired officers conclude by emphasizing the gravity of the situation, stating that history will judge harshly those who attempt to undermine the Venezuelan people’s sovereign decision.