The Voluntad Popular party is mourning the death of its co-founder, Edwin Santos, who was found dead on a bridge connecting two Venezuelan states after being taken into state custody. The party, which opposes President Nicolas Maduro’s government, blamed the regime for the death of Santos, calling it a clear act of political retaliation. Exiled opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez condemned the incident as a political crime, stating that Santos was a valuable activist who leaves behind a wife and two children. Former Venezuelan ambassador to the US, Carlos Vecchio, also knew Santos and indicated that there were signs of torture on his body.
The death of Edwin Santos adds to the growing number of opposition voices being targeted in Venezuela in the wake of a disputed election in late June. Human Rights Watch reported that 23 people were killed by Venezuela’s security forces and armed groups during protests following the election. Maduro’s opposition challenger, Edmundo Gonzalez, was forced to flee to Spain after facing an arrest warrant. The European Union recognized Gonzalez and fellow opposition leader Maria Corina Machado with its top human rights prize, highlighting the ongoing struggle in Venezuela against political repression and human rights violations. Gonzalez emphasized that the fight for change in Venezuela is far from over and called for unity among democrats to uphold the will of the Venezuelan people.
Voluntad Popular and other opposition groups see the death of Edwin Santos as a direct result of the repression and persecution carried out by Maduro’s regime. They view the incident as a grim reminder of the dangers faced by those who speak out against the government in Venezuela. The party described Santos as a visionary leader who dreamed of a better future for his country, underscoring the loss suffered by his family and the entire opposition movement. Additionally, the party pointed out that Santos was not the only victim of political violence in Venezuela, as the crackdown on dissent has intensified in recent years.
The European Union’s recognition of Edmundo Gonzalez and Maria Corina Machado represents a glimmer of hope for the Venezuelan opposition, who continue to face oppression and threats from the ruling regime. The award serves as a symbol of international support for the fight for democracy and human rights in Venezuela, acknowledging the sacrifices made by those who challenge Maduro’s authoritarian rule. Despite the challenges and dangers faced by opposition leaders and activists, there remains a determination to push forward in the struggle for a free and democratic Venezuela. The death of Edwin Santos serves as a tragic reminder of the high stakes involved in opposing the Maduro government, but also as a rallying cry for continued resistance and solidarity among those fighting for change.
The crisis in Venezuela has drawn international attention, with human rights organizations and governments condemning the ongoing repression and violence against opposition figures. The death of Edwin Santos has sparked outrage and renewed calls for accountability from the Maduro regime, as well as support for the opposition’s efforts to bring about political change in the country. The recognition of Gonzalez and Machado by the European Union underscores the need for continued pressure on the Venezuelan government to respect human rights and uphold democratic principles. As the struggle for freedom and justice in Venezuela continues, the legacy of activists like Edwin Santos serves as a reminder of the courage and determination of those who have lost their lives in the fight against authoritarianism.
