Venezuelan judge issues arrest warrant for Edmundo González, opposition’s former presidential candidate
NBCAUG 25 2024
Venezuela: Arrest Warrant Issued for Opposition Candidate
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The Facts
On Monday, a Venezuelan judge issued an arrest order for former presidential candidate Edmundo González Urrutia, who claims victory in the July disputed election against Nicolás Maduro. The arrest warrant was issued after three missed court appearances.
Judge Edward Briceño issued the public prosecutor's office requested warrant against González, who stands accused of falsifying documents, inciting "disobedience," and the "usurpation" of public duties, among others. González denies the allegations.
The dispute arose when opposition tally sheets were published on a website after the vote, apparently showing González to be the winner. The opposition, as well as many in the international community, assert that the data indicates a victory, yet independent confirmation remains elusive.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
This latest development is further evidence of the Maduro regime's crackdown on the opposition, which has seen it unfairly arrest thousands. In an attempt to maintain his grip on power, Maduro stole the election and is now using the public prosecutor's office to cover his tracks.
Establishment-critical narrative
González and his co-conspirator, Machado, refused to concede defeat and likely fabricated public election documents, and committed acts of sabotage. This warrant isn't the result of some Maduro conspiracy but simply Gonzalez's failure to appear in court. Everyone has to follow the law, even leaders of the opposition.
Metaculus Prediction
Establishment split
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