For Venezuelans in the U.S., the recent election was not just a political event but a pivotal moment
As the dust of the election settles, Casa de Venezuela cofounder Emilio Buitrago writes that sentiment among the diaspora is a mix of cautious optimism, hope, and frustration with the Maduro regime.
For those of us with roots in Venezuela, last month’s election — which resulted in a contested victory by the authoritarian regime of Nicolás Maduro — was not just a political event but a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights in our homeland.
The current political and economic crises have driven eight million to seek refuge abroad, and the diaspora remains deeply connected to the events unfolding back home. Venezuela has become a country where grandparents are raising their grandchildren because their sons and daughters have left the country seeking an opportunity to support families left behind.
As the dust continues to settle after voters went to the polls on July 28, the collective sentiment among the diaspora is a mixture of cautious optimism, deep-seated frustration, and hopeful anticipation for meaningful international diplomatic intervention that will allow the democratic transition of power.
Edmundo González Urrutia ran a campaign with María Corina Machado as a pivotal figure, capturing the attention and support of millions of Venezuelans — despite the restrictions and persecution of Maduro.
The election has been a focal point of emotional investment, representing both a glimmer of hope and a potential source of despair.
Reports suggest that the election process was marred by numerous irregularities orchestrated by the Maduro-controlled Consejo Nacional Electoral (National Electoral Council). This entity claimed to have the most robust, modern, unhackable, and effective voting system in the world but failed to provide proof of the tallies and votes received by each candidate.
González and Machado, on the other hand, swiftly provided a count of votes from tallies received by their observers at each polling place that suggested a landslide González victory. The seeming victory is made even more noteworthy given the regime’s restrictions on international observers, its attempts at voter suppression, and its intimidation tactics and attacks by hit squads.
As stated by the Carter Center on July 30 (one of the very few international observers allowed in the country):
Members of the Venezuelan diaspora, many of whom have fled the oppressive conditions of the Maduro regime, were acutely aware of these challenges.
Despite these concerns, however, there is a steadfast sense of hope. The visibility of González and Machado and the mobilization of civil society groups demonstrate that the Venezuelan spirit of resistance is alive.
Looking forward, the role of the international community is crucial.
Many Venezuelans in the U.S. are calling for a robust and unified response from global actors, hoping that countries and international organizations will not only condemn the irregularities observed during the election but also take concrete actions. That they will support democratic forces in Venezuela, and call out Maduro’s intention to disregard the will of the people.
The Biden administration is being closely watched. We are hopeful the U.S. government will take a more active role in addressing the crisis, leveraging its diplomatic influence with Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil to build a coalition of nations committed to supporting democratic transitions in Venezuela.
The recent statements by Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Brian A. Nichols, emphasizing the need for free and fair elections and the release of political prisoners, have been well-received, but the diaspora is eager to see these words translated into action.
Venezuelans remain committed to advocating for democracy and human rights, and our expectations from the international community are clear: robust support, unwavering solidarity, and decisive actions.
The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, but the spirit of resilience and the continued fight for a free Venezuela endure.
Maduro has lost this election — and he needs to accept his fate and allow for a democratic transition of power.
Emilio Buitrago is the cofounder and former president of Casa de Venezuela Philadelphia, where he continues to serve as a board member. An engineer and project manager, he currently serves as a commissioner for the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs.