As Nicolás Maduro was sworn in today for his controversial third term as Venezuela’s president, it is imperative to examine the deeply flawed and corrupt path that brought him to power. Maduro’s presidency has been a stain on democratic governance, not only within Venezuela but as a symbol of authoritarianism in the Western Hemisphere. His continued rule is a direct affront to the principles of free elections, human rights, and sovereignty. With President Trump set to be inaugurated for his second term on January 20, the United States has an opportunity—and an obligation—to lead a global effort to remove this illegitimate dictator from power.
A Fraudulent Rise to Power
Nicolás Maduro’s rise to the presidency was marked by controversy from the beginning. As the handpicked successor of Hugo Chávez, Maduro inherited a country already crumbling under the weight of economic mismanagement and political corruption. Following Chávez’s death in 2013, Maduro narrowly claimed victory in a special election, beating opposition leader Henrique Capriles by less than 2% of the vote.
That election was marred by accusations of fraud, with irregularities ranging from voter intimidation to the manipulation of electronic voting machines. The opposition cried foul, and international observers expressed skepticism over the legitimacy of the results. Yet Maduro consolidated power, leveraging his control over Venezuela’s judiciary and electoral council to stifle dissent and suppress investigations.
2018: The Turning Point in Venezuela’s Crisis
The 2018 presidential election further exposed Maduro’s despotic tendencies. Major opposition parties were barred from participating, and prominent opposition leaders were either exiled, jailed, or disqualified from running. Despite widespread boycotts, the regime claimed an improbable victory, with Maduro reportedly securing 67% of the vote.
Independent monitors and the international community widely condemned the election as a sham. The Lima Group, the European Union, and the United States refused to recognize Maduro’s victory, calling for fresh elections under credible conditions. The United Nations expressed concern over the lack of transparency and fairness, yet Maduro pressed on, doubling down on repression and economic mismanagement.
2024: The Farce Continues
The most recent election in July 2024 was no better. Key opposition leaders, such as María Corina Machado, were disqualified from running. Reports of voter intimidation, ballot tampering, and the refusal to release paper tallies for electronic votes rendered the process a mockery of democracy. Maduro’s regime-controlled National Electoral Council declared him the winner with 51% of the vote, despite credible evidence suggesting otherwise.
International observers, including the United States, the European Union, and the Organization of American States, decried the election as a blatant fraud. The opposition, led by exiled leader Edmundo González, continues to contest the results. Meanwhile, Venezuelans on the ground face dire consequences for expressing dissent, as thousands have been detained and protests have been violently suppressed.
The Cost of Maduro’s Rule
Under Maduro, Venezuela has descended into a humanitarian catastrophe. Hyperinflation has rendered the bolívar practically worthless, leaving millions unable to afford basic necessities. Food and medicine shortages are rampant, forcing millions of Venezuelans to flee the country in one of the largest refugee crises in modern history. Once the wealthiest nation in South America, Venezuela now suffers from poverty rates exceeding 90% under Maduro’s disastrous policies.
Maduro’s government has been implicated in gross human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and the torture of political prisoners. A 2022 report by the United Nations detailed the regime’s systematic violations, describing its actions as potential crimes against humanity. These abuses are not isolated incidents but part of a deliberate strategy to silence opposition and maintain power.
The Role of the United States
President Trump, who will be inaugurated for his second term on January 20, must take bold action to address Maduro’s illegitimacy. The United States has already imposed sanctions on Maduro and his cronies, but more aggressive measures are needed. Here’s what the U.S. should do:
1. Expand Sanctions: Target not only Maduro and his inner circle but also the businesses and foreign entities that sustain his regime, including those in Russia, China, and Iran.
2. Strengthen the Opposition: Provide increased financial, logistical, and diplomatic support to Venezuelan opposition leaders, both at home and in exile. Encourage unity among fractured opposition groups to present a cohesive alternative to Maduro’s rule.
3. Increase International Pressure: Build a coalition with allies in Latin America, Europe, and beyond to isolate Maduro diplomatically and economically. The United States must lead efforts at the United Nations to escalate pressure through coordinated sanctions and humanitarian aid efforts.
4. Consider Military Action: While diplomacy is preferable, the option of a military intervention to protect Venezuela’s citizens and restore democracy should not be taken off the table. The Maduro regime has proven immune to softer forms of pressure.
Why This Matters
Maduro’s continued rule is not just a Venezuelan problem—it’s a regional and global issue. His alliance with rogue states like Iran and China poses a threat to the stability of the Western Hemisphere. Furthermore, his regime’s drug trafficking and corruption contribute to instability across Latin America, fueling the migrant crisis and empowering criminal organizations.
Failing to act decisively against Maduro sends a dangerous signal to other authoritarian regimes. It emboldens despots worldwide to disregard democratic principles and human rights without fear of consequence.
A Call to Action
The world cannot afford to stand by as Nicolás Maduro tightens his grip on Venezuela. His presidency is a mockery of democracy, and his policies have devastated millions of lives. With President Trump returning to office, the United States has a unique opportunity to lead the charge against this illegitimate dictator.
By applying maximum pressure and rallying the international community, America can help bring an end to Maduro’s reign of terror and restore hope to the Venezuelan people. It is not just a matter of policy—it is a moral imperative. The time to act is now.
Disclaimer:
This article represents the opinion of the author and is intended to provide a critical analysis of Nicolás Maduro’s presidency and the ongoing political situation in Venezuela. While efforts have been made to ensure factual accuracy, the views expressed are influenced by publicly available information and recent developments as of January 2025. The article does not necessarily reflect the official stance of this publication, nor should it be interpreted as a comprehensive endorsement of specific policy measures, including military intervention. Readers are encouraged to consult multiple sources and form their own opinions regarding the complex and evolving circumstances in Venezuela.
