Diosdado Cabello, number 2 of Chavismo and current Minister of Justice and Peace of the Nicolás Maduro regime, threatened opponent Edmundo González Urrutia with arrest if he returns to Venezuela to take office as president on January 10, 2025.
In a statement made during a press conference this Monday (11), Cabello said that González would be “received” at the international airport in the city of Maiquetía, where he would be immediately arrested.
“We’re going to wait at the airport (…) because he says he’s going to take the oath on January 10th here in Venezuela,” Cabello said, adding that “justice always arrives” and that there will be no forgiveness for those who “conspired” against the regime.
González has been in exile in Spain since September after being the target of persecution and threats from the Maduro regime. According to opposition minutes, recognized by the US and international observers, the opposition was the winner of the presidential elections on July 28, with more than 60% of the votes. Chavismo, however, rigged the results and declared the current Venezuelan dictator as the winner, without presenting any evidence. The Venezuelan opposition has tried to pressure the Caracas dictatorship to give in and sought international support for its cause.
González has indicated his desire to return to Venezuela to take office as president in January before the National Assembly early next year, reinforcing his intention to assume the role of president of the South American country.
Cabello, in turn, indicated that González’s return will be an opportunity for the Chavista regime to act against him.
“A friend has a welcoming committee prepared,” said the Caracas regime minister, suggesting that González’s intention to return to the country could result in his incarceration.