Amid a serious political crisis in Venezuela, authoritarian President Nicolás Maduro is pushing Christmas forward by almost three months. “It’s September and it already smells like Christmas. As a thank you to the people who are fighting, I am moving Christmas by decree to October 1,” the head of state said.
“Christmas brings peace, joy and security,” Maduro added to supporters on a television program.
Moving, even during the Corona pandemic
It is not the first time that Maduro has resorted to this unusual measure to distract from the South American country’s pressing problems. During the 2020 coronavirus pandemic, he moved Christmas to October 15 and the following year to October 4.
At the time, Maduro released a video of the Miraflores presidential palace decorated with Christmas trees and ornaments. Traditionally, the socialist government distributes food parcels containing items such as pork knuckle to poor areas of the country during the Christmas season.
Controversial elections
After presidential elections on July 28, which were clouded by allegations of fraud, the loyal electoral authority declared Maduro, in power since 2013, the winner. The opposition accuses the government in Caracas of electoral fraud and claims victory for its candidate Edmundo González Urrutia. On Monday, a court issued an arrest warrant for the ex-diplomat at the request of the pro-government public prosecutor.
The EU also doubts the election results
The United States and several Latin American countries have already recognized González’s election victory. The European Union and the Organization of American States also doubt the official election results. In Venezuela and abroad, numerous opponents of the government have repeatedly taken to the streets in recent weeks to protest what they see as the manipulated election results.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
