The Daily Journal.- Venezuelan political leader Juan Barreto expressed hope that María Corina Machado’s return to Venezuela would contribute to national reconciliation, while warning that her supporters’ enthusiasm could lead to intolerance and division.
“I hope her return opens the door to democratic tolerance and peace. I hope her supporters’ enthusiasm does not turn into intolerant sectarianism,” Barreto wrote. He also noted that Venezuelan workers would closely examine the opposition leader’s proposals regarding national sovereignty, social rights, wages, and free education at all levels.
The political leader argued that Venezuelans need leaders who can channel social frustrations toward hope rather than resentment. “People want leaders who channel frustrations toward joy, not anger, sadness, and revenge,” he stated.
Barreto raised questions about the political direction Venezuela might take following Machado’s return and called for an assessment of whether her comeback represents a substantial change or a continuation of current policies.
“Will it mean continuing Delcy’s policies with a different team? Or reclaiming our sovereignty to serve ordinary people?” he asked.
In another message, Barreto linked Venezuela’s political crisis to controversies surrounding the presidential election and argued that the country could have avoided suffering if Nicolás Maduro had acknowledged the election results. He also recalled those who demanded transparency and the publication of electoral tally sheets before the National Electoral Council (CNE) and the Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ).
Barreto welcomed the return of Venezuelans from exile and demanded the release of all political prisoners. “No one should face persecution or political disqualification because of their beliefs,” he maintained.
He also argued that negotiators must accelerate the democratic transition while reaffirming his commitment to workers’ rights and better living conditions for working-class communities.
“They are the ones who create wealth. Without dignity, justice, and respect for the ownership of the fruits of labor, there is no democracy,” Barreto stated, rejecting the precarious conditions affecting Venezuelans. “No more humiliation and hunger for the people!”
