Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday and pledged that elections will take place in the country as part of a shift toward full democracy, though she offered no specific date.
Key Remarks from the Speech
“I want to make this very clear at this General Assembly: there will be elections in Venezuela,” Rodríguez said, according to multiple reports. She added that her government has begun political dialogue with opposition sectors to ensure a process with equal conditions for all participants.
Rodríguez stated that the Venezuelan people would determine the appropriate timing, emphasizing that institutions would be prepared to guarantee an inclusive and transparent process when the time comes.
Background and Context
Rodríguez assumed the role of interim president following a U.S. military operation in January that resulted in the capture of former leader Nicolás Maduro. Her appearance marked the first address by a Venezuelan head of state to the UN General Assembly since 2018.
She also expressed appreciation for renewed diplomatic engagement with the United States under President Donald Trump and described Venezuela as entering a phase of democratic transformation and rebirth.
Reactions and Implications
Analysts noted that while the pledge aligns with constitutional requirements for future votes, opposition groups have sought earlier timelines and institutional reforms, including changes to the Supreme Court and electoral council.
