Venezuelan National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez stated that elections in Venezuela are not expected in the immediate future. Any potential vote, he explained in an interview with Newsmax, is contingent upon achieving political stabilization and reaching agreements with the opposition.
Shifting Priorities in Venezuela
Rodríguez’s statements come just over a month after the capture and extradition of former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro to the United States to face narcotics trafficking charges – an event Rodríguez described as “highly traumatic” but one the country has processed with “maturity.” According to Rodríguez, the interim executive branch is focused on stabilizing the internal situation and pursuing national reconciliation while daily life in Caracas remains relatively normal.
Rodríguez clarified that his position does not invalidate the 2024 presidential elections, in which the opposition accused Maduro of fraud against their candidate Edmundo González Urrutia. He attributed the current situation to years of political division. He also noted that conversations with U.S. Government representatives, including Senator Marco Rubio, have emphasized the need for stability and respect for Venezuelan sovereignty.
Economic Reorientation
The interview also revealed a shift in the government’s economic discourse. Rodríguez acknowledged past errors in the application of the country’s economic model, which led to a historic crisis of poverty, and proposed a reorientation toward market-based systems with greater openness to foreign investment. “The interest of Venezuela is to move forward and promote health, education and culture through a free market economy,” he stated.
Rodríguez explained that a recent modification to the country’s oil legislation, approved by both the ruling party and the opposition, aims to enable the development of untapped oil fields and create more favorable conditions for foreign investment, particularly from U.S. Companies. He indicated an increasing understanding with Washington and anticipated a visit from the U.S. Secretary of Energy to deepen cooperation.
Amnesty and Reconciliation
Domestically, Rodríguez emphasized a reconciliation strategy based on an Amnesty Law being promoted by the National Assembly. When asked about the potential return of exiled opposition leaders, including María Corina Machado, he stated that the Amnesty Law is intended to allow all opposition sectors abroad to comply with the law and return to the country. However, he clarified that the initiative excludes those who, according to the government, promoted violence, calls for foreign intervention, or armed actions against Venezuela.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will elections be held in Venezuela at any point?
According to Jorge Rodríguez, elections will only be considered once political stabilization is achieved and agreements are reached with the opposition.
What is the current status of Nicolás Maduro?
Nicolás Maduro was captured and extradited to the United States to face charges related to narcotics trafficking, an event Rodríguez described as “highly traumatic.”
What changes is Venezuela making to its economic model?
Venezuela is seeking to reorient its economy toward a free market system with greater openness to foreign investment, particularly in the energy sector.
As Venezuela navigates this period of change, what role will international cooperation play in shaping its future political and economic landscape?
