As Venezuela transition continues, some say regime is dodging real reform

CARACAS, Venezuela — The third phase of Venezuela’s transition process is underway, with negotiations held between government and opposition representatives aiming to organize free and fair elections.

“(Acting President) Delcy Rodriguez’s strategy is to buy time, it’s to discuss about the earthquake,” Jesus Armas, a former political prisoner, said. “She doesn’t want to discuss about free and fair elections, about democracy, about new electoral authority, about new members of the Supreme Court.”

Neither the government nor the opposition have said expressly when elections could be held in Venezuela.

“What is the regime going to do when it truly has its back against the wall?,” political analyst Luis Salamanca asked.

Salamanca believes democracy will eventually come to the country. But in similar situations around the world, organizing that process has taken up to a year and a half.

“I am one of those who believe that a path toward democratic elections will indeed emerge,” Salamanca said.

How Rodriguez may react if ultimately faced with leaving office would be a wildcard.

“It’s not going to be so easy, it’s not going to be fast,” Armas said.

Armas also says he believes Rodriguez will attempt to remain in power, but is hopeful the United States will force her out.

“I don’t want any other person in Venezuela, any other innocent to have to live what I live or what other political prisoners were living right now,” Armas said.

On Thursday, the U.S. State Department released a statement celebrating this process, calling it a unique opportunity. The statement said the dialogue was Venezuelan-led, but many believe it’s all being guided by the United States.

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