Can Edmundo González Win the Venezuelan Presidency? 

Former diplomat Edmundo González Urrutia has been endorsed by the opposition for the upcoming elections in Venezuela. Key opposition figures, María Corina Machado and Manuel Rosales, have agreed on González Urrutia as their representative, with Rosales officially resigning his candidacy to back González Urrutia. His candidacy, albeit initially met with silence by the National Electoral Council (CNE), has been approved close to the deadline, surprisingly giving the opposition a stronger position. International pressure and ongoing negotiations with the US might have influenced this acceptance. More Consulting’s April poll predicts a likely landslide victory for the opposition, backed by Machado, with around 50% of voters in their favor. Machado’s popularity and leadership, despite being banned from running for office, are seen as crucial assets. The opposition has been successful in keeping the public engaged with activities such as Machado’s intensive primaries’ campaign across the country and the formation of grassroots community groups. They have also initiated the 600K Plan to organize electoral witnesses. However, the Chavista regime has been attempting strategies to offset the opposition’s momentum, such as detentions and candidates’ bans. Venezuelan opposition figure Edmundo González Urrutia’s candidacy could unite varying factions in the opposition. This unity might secure more support against the ruling party. However, González Urrutia faces significant obstacles, such as Chavismo’s control over the Electoral Council and judicial system. Backup candidate Enrique Márquez is under consideration. Additionally, Colombian president Gustavo Petro has proposed a plebiscite to guarantee a democratic pact. González Urrutia, lacking elected office experience and social media presence, faces hurdles to build his public image amidst challenges like censorship and misinformation. Original Text by Tony Frangie Mawad-> CaracasChronicle

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