Venezuela's opposition leader, María Corina Machado, faces the grim prospect of being considered a fugitive if she travels to Norway to accept her Nobel Peace Prize, according to a statement by the Venezuelan attorney general, Tarik William Saab.
Saab indicated that Machado, who has been in hiding to evade arrest, is accused of acts of conspiracy, incitement of hatred, and terrorism. The 58-year-old leader was awarded the prestigious prize in October for her tireless advocacy for a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.
Machado has long been a vocal critic of President Nicolás Maduro's government, labelling it as criminal and rallying for unity among Venezuelans to overthrow it. Her criticism resonates widely, as many countries do not recognize Maduro's reign as legitimate.
Despite being barred from participating in last year's presidential elections, where Maduro won a controversial third term, Machado's influence remains significant among the opposition. The elections were criticized for lacking fairness, igniting widespread protests throughout the nation.
During her continued advocacy, Machado managed to galvanize support for her surrogate, Edmundo González, despite her disqualification, only for the government-dominated electoral body to declare Maduro the victor, despite reports of González's overwhelming support at the polls.
The Nobel Committee recognized Machado as a beacon of civilian courage in Latin America, expressing hopes for her attendance at the award ceremony scheduled for December 10. In response to her award, Machado noted her surprise and humility, attributing her recognition to the collective efforts of Venezuelan society.
In an intensified dynamic, Machado is actively urging the Venezuelan military to defect from Maduro’s regime while outlining her vision for a post-Maduro Venezuela in what she branded a freedom manifesto.
She has underscored the urgency of this transition, declaring, We stand at the edge of a new era - one where our natural rights will prevail.\
