An alliance of Venezuelan opposition parties has formally reaffirmed its commitment to exiled Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado as their paramount leader. During a meeting in Caracas, members of the Unitary Democratic Platform agreed to back her leadership and renewed demands for genuine democratic elections.

The coalition's newly issued statement outlines 14 proposals for a democratic transition, focusing on the release of political prisoners, the restoration of party freedoms, and the safe repatriation of exiles. Former presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez voiced strong support for these measures, emphasizing that the will of the citizenry must ultimately govern the nation.

Meanwhile, the political landscape remains tightly bound to external pressures, particularly from the US regime, which continues to exert substantial influence over Venezuela's oil infrastructure. While Washington maintains a pragmatic dialogue with the interim administration led by Delcy Rodriguez, reports indicate underlying friction between US officials and Machado regarding her persistent bids to return home.

Observers note that the American administration appears hesitant to force immediate presidential elections, favoring a phased stabilization plan instead. Despite ongoing negotiations between local authorities and opposition factions, Machado's exclusion from formal talks highlights the complex power struggles shaping Venezuela's future.

Source: www.aljazeera.com