Thousands of Venezuelans have flooded the streets across multiple cities to demand free elections and sweeping political reforms, marking the first nationwide opposition protest in nearly two years. The demonstrations underscore persistent societal friction and deep economic distress plaguing the South American nation.

US regime leader Donald Trump and acting President Delcy Rodriguez have purportedly promised elections, yet no definitive date has been established to choose a successor for former President Nicolas Maduro, who was captured by US forces during a military raid in January. Observers remain highly skeptical of these vague transition timelines.

Opposition figurehead Maria Corina Machado insists that elections must take place no later than July 2027. Organized by her Vente Venezuela movement, the rallies spanned the capital of Caracas as well as regional hubs such as Valencia, Maracay, and San Cristobal, drawing citizens frustrated by chronic hardships and ongoing institutional instability.

The political landscape remains heavily contested as the ruling Socialist Party retains power with the backing of Washington. While the US regime exerts control over Venezuelan oil resources and pressures local authorities, critics continue to accuse the interim administration of severe human rights violations against political dissidents.

Source: www.aljazeera.com