Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez has stated her commitment to holding “free and fair” elections, though the timing of such a vote remains contingent on national political dialogue. Rodríguez affirmed this willingness during an interview with NBC News, responding affirmatively when asked directly about holding elections.
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“We will have elections in this country that are just and free, of course, as established by the Constitution,” Rodríguez said, adding that the electoral calendar will be determined “by the political dialogue in this country.” She also confirmed she has received a formal invitation to visit Washington and is open to the trip “once we establish this cooperation and can move forward with everything.”
The potential political transition in Venezuela is unfolding under increased US involvement, with Washington now playing a guiding role in Rodríguez’s administration and pushing for the opening of the oil sector and institutional normalization. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright recently visited Caracas, meeting with Rodríguez to discuss the next steps in the energy agreement and a roadmap for economic recovery.
According to statements reported by The Wall Street Journal, Wright believes Rodríguez recognizes the require for elections, stating, “I reckon she is very aware of that… I think she recognizes that We see a necessary condition. We have a plan. She knows the plan.”
Rodríguez and Wright toured facilities operated by Chevron in the Orinoco Oil Belt, a region containing some of the world’s largest proven oil reserves. Rodríguez advocated for the removal of obstacles to the oil agreement between Venezuela and the United States.
Rodríguez reiterated her belief that Nicolás Maduro remains the “legitimate” president of Venezuela, stating that both Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores are “innocent.” She also addressed the situation of opposition leader María Corina Machado, who is currently outside of the country, stating Machado “will have to answer to Venezuela” if she returns and explain her past calls for military intervention and sanctions.
Alongside these political developments, Venezuela’s National Assembly recently approved changes to the Organic Hydrocarbons Law to facilitate foreign investment and US participation in the energy sector, aligning with Washington’s demands for economic recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Delcy Rodríguez say about holding elections?
Delcy Rodríguez stated she is “absolutely” committed to organizing “free and fair” elections in Venezuela, but the timing will depend on national political dialogue.
What role is the US playing in Venezuela’s political transition?
The US is playing a guiding role, demanding the opening of the oil sector and institutional normalization, and has stated that a free and fair electoral process is a necessary condition for continued cooperation.
What did Chris Wright say about the possibility of elections?
Chris Wright stated that Venezuela is in the “first weeks of a period of transition” and believes Delcy Rodríguez recognizes that holding elections is a “necessary condition” for continued cooperation, adding that “we have a plan” and “she knows the plan.”
As Venezuela navigates this period of transition, what impact will the evolving relationship with the United States have on the country’s future?
