US-backed democracy talks start in Venezuela without Nobel laureate Machado

Venezuela Launches US-Sponsored Democratic Dialogue Amidst Delays

Qwenews.com – Caracas hosted a significant gathering on Thursday as the Venezuelan administration convened with opposition representatives following several days of postponement. These discussions represent the beginning of American-supported negotiations designed to guide the South American nation toward democratic reform. Washington plays a central role in these proceedings, having facilitated the dialogue months after removing President Nicolás Maduro from power.

Key Figures Leading the Negotiations

Jorge Rodríguez heads the government delegation, serving as president of the current National Assembly and sibling to acting president Delcy Rodríguez. On the opposing side, former congresswoman Dinorah Figuera directs the bloc, which consists of ex-members from the 2015 National Assembly—the final legislative body recognized as legitimate by American officials.

Two prominent opposition voices remain missing from these US-sponsored conversations: María Corina Machado and Edmundo González Urrutia, both currently residing abroad. Each has indicated intentions to observe proceedings closely while expressing optimism that the discussions will culminate in fresh elections.

Historical Context and New Dynamics

Since 2013, Venezuelan authorities and various opposition representatives have conducted over twelve negotiation attempts without achieving substantial outcomes. Analysts suggest this round may prove different because it represents the first initiative actively promoted and partially directed by the United States.

The ongoing dialogue aligns with America’s comprehensive three-stage strategy encompassing stabilization, economic restoration, political reconciliation, and democratic transition for Venezuela, ultimately targeting new electoral processes.

Discussion Priorities and Timeline

Both participating sides have identified three primary agenda items: addressing the devastating June earthquakes, enhancing democratic frameworks, and securing political freedoms. Following her Wednesday evening arrival in Venezuela, Figuera elaborated that participants would additionally examine potential restructuring of the electoral oversight institution to establish greater credibility and reliability. She also mentioned proposed modifications to the Supreme Court of Justice.

Speaking with Venezuelan network Televen, Figuera emphasized that the negotiation process requires patience, noting that comprehensive results might receive formal presentation by December.

International Perspectives on US Influence

The US Embassy in Caracas expressed welcoming sentiments toward the discussions, stating it “remains committed to supporting Venezuelan-led efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, expand political freedoms, and promote a more stable and prosperous future for the people of Venezuela.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified in mid-July that these conversations extend beyond mere reconciliation to encompass what he termed a transition process involving American participation.

Carmen Beatriz Fernández, director of consulting firm DataStrategia, noted: “The strings of this negotiation are not being pulled by the government, but by the State Department. And that is becoming increasingly clear, no matter how much they try to disguise it and make it less obvious.”

While Rodríguez maintains that Venezuela’s renewed relationship with America rests upon diplomatic and commercial cooperation rather than subordination or external interference, Christopher Sabatini, director of the Latin America program at Chatham House, argues otherwise.

Sabatini stated: “The US government has ‘real influence over both parties this time,’ evidenced by the ‘economic, political and even legal influence’ the US exerts over government officials through sanctions and other restrictions, and by Figuera’s selection as the opposition’s main delegate.”

Figuera’s Political Journey

The former lawmaker possesses an extensive political background featuring crucial opposition roles. A cancer survivor, Figuera’s inaugural elected position occurred as councilor of Caracas’s Libertador Municipality from 1995 through 2000. She subsequently won election as deputy for Caracas in the National Assembly in 2010, followed by selection as deputy for Aragua state in 2015.

Alleged threats and harassment prompted Figuera’s exile to Spain in 2018. She emerged as a pivotal figure within the opposition movement spearheaded by Juan Guaidó between 2019 and 2023, which mounted an unsuccessful challenge against Maduro while receiving backing from then-President Donald Trump during his initial term.

Following elections in January 2023, former opposition deputies from the 2015 National Assembly chose Figuera as president of the legislative body. Within days, Venezuelan authorities issued arrest warrants and red alerts targeting five former opposition deputies, including Figuera, accusing them of “usurpation of functions, treason, money” violations.