María Corina Machado, a prominent Venezuelan opposition leader, has expressed her conviction that Edmundo González will assume the presidency of Venezuela on January 10, 2025. This declaration comes amidst President Nicolás Maduro's claim of victory in July's elections.

Machado, a former legislator and leader of Vente Venezuela, firmly believes that González, the United Democratic Platform (PUD) candidate and the largest opposition party, has overwhelmingly won the elections. Despite the National Electoral Council declaring Maduro as the winner, Machado maintains that González is the rightful victor.

Her assertions are backed by several countries and international organizations, including the Carter Center, which participated in the elections as observers. The Carter Center has questioned the officially declared results, stating that the electoral process lacked democratic standards.

Machado, who remains under protection due to threats against her life, criticized the National Electoral Council (CNE) for not publishing precise election results. She emphasized the need for transparency and highlighted numerous requests for it from the international community.

The opposition leader based her statements on electoral records gathered and published by the Democratic Unitary Platform (Plataforma Unitaria Democrática; PUD). She stressed that "the whole world knows" that Maduro lost the election and is attempting to carry out "the biggest fraud in history" by insisting on his victory with the support of institutions and military leadership.

Maduro, according to Machado, currently lacks legitimacy and international recognition. She urged the international community to draw a clear red line demanding respect for popular sovereignty. Additionally, she called upon foreign governments to firmly communicate to Maduro that using repressive forces against innocent citizens is unacceptable.

Machado anticipates a growing wave of protests and believes it is crucial to exert pressure for a negotiation with Maduro. She emphasized that the military leadership must understand their constitutional obligation to uphold popular sovereignty and refrain from repressing the people.

She highlighted that while transition terms are subject to negotiations, the opposition remains committed to advancing along this path. This includes not only Maduro but also members of the military leadership and civil service officials.

Machado stressed that a peaceful and civic protest is the best option for Maduro and perhaps his only viable choice. She urged her and González to continue increasing pressure with the support of Venezuelans and the international community.

Regarding her decision to keep her whereabouts secret, despite assurances from the Attorney General's Office that there is no arrest warrant against her, Machado recalled Maduro's labeling her a terrorist and calling for her imprisonment. She also pointed out that many other leaders are in hiding due to similar threats and the president's call for extreme police and military control.

Despite these challenges, Machado remains optimistic. She expressed her determination to continue advocating for her cause and ensuring that civic and peaceful protest remains alive. She concluded by reaffirming her belief in Edmundo González as the elected president of Venezuela.