Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado has chosen a substitute to run against President Nicolás Maduro in the upcoming presidential race in July, following the detainment of two of Machado’s associates.
Corina Yoris, 80, was recently selected as the opposition’s pick for candidacy, following announcements from Venezuela’s attorney general regarding the arrests of two of Machado’s associates. The attorney general also stated that warrants have been issued for seven additional individuals, including rumored replacement for Machado, Magalli Meda.
Machado’s decision essentially means she is no longer participating in the election, which was scheduled for July 28th. This comes after she was prohibited from holding public office, a decision that was upheld by Venezuela’s supreme court, despite receiving a overwhelming 93% support in an opposition primary in October.
The detentions of Henry Alviarez and Dignora Hernández, both allies of Machado, sparked global criticism.
US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated on Friday that the actions taken by Maduro and his representatives, including detaining two members of the main opposition candidate’s campaign and issuing warrants for seven others, is a concerning increase in oppression.
Source: theguardian.com
