Yesterday it marked the start of the campaign for the opposition primaries set for October 22, an event that will redefine the current political landscape of Venezuela. On that day, Maduro’s regime will be confronted with reality, and the Bolivarian revolution will be immersed in a sea of doubts and uncertainties.

The degradation of the “Bolivarian revolution” is evident: its symbolic essence no longer exists. It’s now defended more by opportunists than by true believers. The charismatic leadership of their “eternal commander” was replaced by “Superbigote”, a far less empathetic figure. Without external financial support, the raiding of the public treasury ruined the nation, public services, and infrastructure before 21st-century socialism. The country is deteriorating faster than generations can pass; Venezuelans themselves are witnesses to this regression and the migration of loved ones—it’s our daily reality.

Opponents of Nicolás Maduro’s regime, both inside and outside Venezuela, will exercise their right to vote that day to initiate the political transition millions of citizens long for. However, the lack of a cohesive political model with a clear vision and shared purpose could obscure a clear alternative for the majority. Being united in opposition to Maduro isn’t enough to unify the mission and will of the future.

October 22 will unveil the presence of opposition leadership that will channel the general dissatisfaction of Venezuelans. Widespread protests and struggles will have a clear direction. From that day on, in Venezuela, someone will bind and represent dissenting voices.

Fighting the totalitarian-mafioso-criminal state remains a colossal challenge, requiring a personal sacrifice that only excessive egos or superhuman kindness can afford. The repressive sophistication of Maduro’s regime, expertly combining extreme social control with intimidation, arrests, violence, and emotionally manipulative gratitude, has hindered popular unity in achieving “freedom, damn it”.

It’s vital to recognize that the wear and tear of the “Bolivarian theft revolution” is at a critical point. But, even with its weaknesses, the regime will not allow the rise of an articulated opposition. Maduro’s approach, which thrives on conflict and chaos, will not readily accept adverse electoral results.

Despite this, citizen pressure, backed by the international community, could spark non-violent resistance. If successful against the whitewashing actions of Lula da Silva from Brazil, Gustavo Petro from Colombia, Andrés Manuel López Obrador from Mexico, and Juan González from the White House, among others, the political landscape could change.

Consequently, it will be crucial if the United States, the European Union, Canada, the United Kingdom, and others recognize the opposition’s primary election results, thus facilitating a way out of Venezuela’s political crisis. It would also allow the Biden administration to correct past mistakes when recalibrating sanctions against Maduro’s regime.

It’s time for leaders from economic, political, religious, and social sectors to realize their true strength and potential. With external support and an utter rejection of violence, they can form a united front presenting a clear alternative to the Venezuelan people.

If the opposition doesn’t solidify this united front and show the people the end of an era, the current opportunity might be lost forever. But this would once again give Maduro’s regime time to change the circumstances in its favor—regroup, find the external financial support it relies on, and even grant certain economic freedoms that make the absence of freedoms and rights more insidious.

The task is challenging. The opposition must present itself as a force against Maduro and a vision for the future. Beyond criticism, it’s imperative to rebuild trust in a prosperous, fair, and free Venezuela and pave the way for the nation’s reunion and democratic reinstitutionalization.

Time is ticking, and the challenge is immense. The Venezuelan opposition leadership faces a unique opportunity to set a new course for the country. It’s time to act with determination, unity, and a vision for the future.

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