Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado’s security chief, Milciades Avila, has been released from jail a day after his arrest on charges of gender violence. Avila, who will be required to appear in court every 30 days, was detained early Wednesday on charges of violence against a group of women who reportedly tried to attack Machado and opposition coalition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez at a food store in Aragua state over the weekend.
Machado expressed her gratitude on social media platform X, thanking supporters for their efforts to “reverse this injustice.” She highlighted the importance of continued support in the face of ongoing challenges.
Avila’s arrest comes less than two weeks before the pivotal July 28 vote, where Gonzalez is significantly ahead of President Nicolas Maduro, who is seeking a third term. The Venezuelan opposition has frequently accused authorities of arrests and other actions aimed at undermining their election campaign and preventing a fair election, allegations the government denies.
Machado, who won the opposition’s October primary by a large margin, has been barred from running in the election over alleged fraud, which she denies. Additionally, several of her allies have been detained, further complicating the opposition’s efforts.
Machado’s lawyer, Omar Mora, celebrated Avila’s release on social media, stating, “Little by little we will dismantle the reckless and false accusations against you! We will continue working for freedom and the return of justice to Venezuela.”
The upcoming election is being closely monitored by the United States, which has linked the lifting of sanctions to Venezuela’s implementation of free elections. The U.S. re-imposed sanctions in April, citing Maduro’s failure to meet commitments for fair elections. The international community is watching closely as Venezuela navigates this critical period in its political landscape.
Melissa Enoch
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