Venezuela's Opposition Leader Raises Alarm on Maduro's Crackdown

Opposition leader María Corina Machado highlights the concerning situation in Venezuela, where the Maduro regime is intensifying its suppression of dissent, leading to widespread arrests and torture.

Venezuela's opposition movement is facing a crucial juncture as the Maduro regime continues its relentless crackdown on dissidents. Key figure María Corina Machado, who has been forced into hiding, recently joined "Fox & Friends Weekend" to shed light on the escalating crisis.

Machado's arrest earlier this month, which she livestreamed, exemplified the brazen tactics employed by Maduro's security forces. Without a warrant or probable cause, they stormed her home and seized her phone, halting her broadcast as she denounced her treatment.

Venezuela's Opposition Leader Raises Alarm on Maduro's Crackdown

The arbitrary detention of activists like Machado and María Oropeza, who was apprehended for her support of the opposition party, has drawn international condemnation. Oropeza is currently being held in El Helicoide, Venezuela's notorious detention center known for its deplorable conditions and rampant torture.

Meanwhile, the opposition coalition Vente Venezuela has accused Maduro of rigging the July 28 election, which he claims to have won by a substantial margin. Vente Venezuela has released evidence suggesting that opposition candidate Edmundo González emerged victorious by a significant margin.

Venezuela's Opposition Leader Raises Alarm on Maduro's Crackdown

Venezuela's Supreme Court, under Maduro's control, has declared Maduro the winner, dismissing any reports of his defeat as falsified. This decision has been rejected by the United States, European Union, and several Latin American countries.

In response to Maduro's claim of victory, widespread protests erupted across Venezuela, prompting a wave of violent repression. Security forces have apprehended thousands of demonstrators, many of whom are subjected to torture.

Venezuela's Opposition Leader Raises Alarm on Maduro's Crackdown

The arrest video of Oropeza, released by Venezuela's military counter-intelligence unit, has instilled fear among opposition activists. Many have gone into hiding, deterred by the threat of imprisonment.

The Ladies of Liberty Alliance (LOLA), a global organization of libertarian women, has taken action in response to Oropeza's arrest, filing a complaint with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights for her release. LOLA is also advocating for international pressure on the Maduro regime.

Venezuela's Opposition Leader Raises Alarm on Maduro's Crackdown

LOLA President Nena Bartlett Whitfield expressed concern that activists like Oropeza are at constant risk of being targeted by the regime. She added that the arrest video has "chilled people into silence."

Ana Karina Rizo, a LOLA lawyer, highlighted the dangers faced by protesters who remain in Venezuela, saying they could be apprehended at any moment.

Venezuela's Opposition Leader Raises Alarm on Maduro's Crackdown

LOLA is spearheading fundraising efforts for Oropeza's release, aiming to raise $5,000. The organization recognizes the urgency of her situation and the importance of supporting the ongoing fight for freedom in Venezuela.