Diosdado Cabello, the general secretary of the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV), claimed on Monday that the Chavista movement is the target of an alleged "fake news war," a narrative frequently invoked by the regime whenever uncomfortable reports about the power structure emerge.
During a press conference broadcasted by state media, Cabello responded to recent publications involving interim president Delcy Rodríguez and other high-ranking officials, labeling these reports as false and part of a discrediting strategy. However, the official did not provide concrete evidence regarding the source of these reports nor did he identify specific culprits.
Cabello argued that such content is no longer spread solely through major media outlets but now finds an effective channel in social media, allowing it to proliferate without subsequent correction.
This argument has been repeatedly used by the Chavista regime to discredit journalistic reports, independent organizations' complaints, and critical narratives broadcasted from abroad.
The PSUV leader once again linked these alleged disinformation campaigns to attempts to justify international sanctions and pressures against Venezuela. This discourse has been a longstanding official explanation for the country's political and economic decline.
Despite this, Cabello asserted that the Venezuelan population is "immune" to fake news, a statement that contrasts with a reality characterized by state control over traditional media, the closure of independent news spaces, and the persecution of dissenting voices.
The statements come at a time when the Chavista regime is actively working to reinforce its grip on public narratives, employing the term fake news as a tool to delegitimize information that questions the political power's actions.
Understanding the Misinformation Battle in Venezuela
What is the alleged "fake news war" in Venezuela?
The "fake news war" refers to the narrative used by the Venezuelan government to claim that false information is being spread to discredit the regime and its officials, often without providing concrete evidence.
How does the Venezuelan government justify its claims of fake news?
The government argues that misinformation is being used to justify international sanctions and pressure against Venezuela, framing it as a strategic attack to undermine the country's stability.
What is the impact of state control over media in Venezuela?
State control over media has led to a lack of independent news coverage, making it challenging for critical voices to be heard and for the public to access unbiased information.