Edmundo González Urges Release of Political Prisoners and Respect for Venezuelan People's Will

Venezuela's president-elect, Edmundo González Urrutia, has made a public call for the release of political prisoners and the acknowledgment of the "will of the Venezuelan people."

In a message shared on social media, González advocated for a democratic transition in Venezuela, emphasizing the need for a sincere normalization that hinges on freeing all political detainees and respecting the majority's choice made on July 28, 2024. He stated that only under these conditions can a genuine and responsible democratic transition commence.

Democratic Transition and Accountability

González highlighted the importance of holding those who have unlawfully held power accountable, suggesting that their departure opens new possibilities but does not replace the pressing tasks at hand, which include the immediate and unconditional release of all political, civil, and military detainees.

He reminded the public that his legitimacy comes from the popular mandate and the support of the Venezuelan people: "The transition needs to be built with responsibility, determination, and national unity."

Appeal to the Armed Forces

González also appealed to the Armed Forces, urging them to uphold and enforce the sovereign decision expressed at the polls, reminding them that their loyalty lies with the Constitution, the people, and the nation.

The political figure, acknowledged as the winner of the July 2024 elections by the Carter Center, appears to be responding to remarks by Marco Rubio, who on the same Sunday expressed doubts about the strength of the Venezuelan opposition.

In an interview on NBC's Meet the Press, Rubio praised opposition leader María Corina Machado as "fantastic" but noted her absence from Venezuela, highlighting the immediate challenges faced by the opposition.

International Reactions and Challenges

On the previous day, U.S. President Donald Trump questioned Machado's ability to govern, citing a lack of sufficient support and respect within Venezuela. During a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump discussed the operation that led to Nicolás Maduro's removal from Caracas and confirmed no contact had been made with Machado following the event.

Meanwhile, Machado released a statement to the Venezuelan people, asserting that "the time for freedom has come" and urging citizens to stay organized and active in the democratic transition process. Dated January 3, 2026, the statement claims Maduro faces international justice for "atrocious crimes" committed against Venezuelans and citizens of other nations, and commends the U.S. for fulfilling its promise to uphold the law.

Machado declared, "Now is the time for Popular Sovereignty and National Sovereignty to prevail in our country," and called for the liberation of political prisoners, the restoration of order, and the building of "an exceptional nation."

Recognizing the years of struggle and sacrifice, Machado affirmed that the efforts have been worthwhile, and acknowledged Edmundo González Urrutia as Venezuela's legitimate president, who should assume his constitutional mandate and be recognized as Commander in Chief of the National Armed Forces.

However, during the Saturday press conference, the U.S. president undermined the Venezuelan opposition's stance, revealing that the U.S. strategy involves negotiating with the Chavista regime.