Maduro reaffirms his commitment to housing amid electoral tensions.

In an environment of political tensions and heightened expectations, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro addressed his supporters in Caracas this Saturday, reaffirming his commitment to building housing and improving the quality of life for citizens on the eve of the presidential elections. This speech took place despite the prohibition on conducting electoral propaganda, as the official campaign ended last Thursday, according to the National Electoral Council (CNE). Maduro, who is seeking re-election for a third consecutive term, emphasized that his government will continue with the construction of housing, promising the building of 500,000 units per year during his next term. "We are going for more; there are many people who need their homes, and they will have them," the president assured, urging the population to maintain faith in his administration. His statements, broadcasted by the state channel VTV, were aimed at reinforcing his image before voters who have seen how the country's economic crisis has severely affected their access to basic services. The president, who has been in power since 2013, also took the opportunity to criticize his opposition, suggesting that his rivals wish to lead Venezuela towards an economic model similar to that of Argentina under the leadership of Javier Milei, who has expressed intentions to privatize essential services. "The people say no, in one voice," he stated, assuring that his base supports his vision of a country where the rights of the people are prioritized. As the elections approach, the political climate is becoming increasingly tense. The opposition, grouped in the Democratic Unitary Platform (PUD), is presenting its own candidate, former ambassador Edmundo González Urrutia, who has promised change in the face of the crisis facing the country. However, Maduro has dismissed his opponents, accusing them of being responsible for an "economic war" that, according to him, has destabilized the country, a strategy he has used as part of his narrative since taking power. The elections this Sunday are crucial, not only for Maduro's future but also for the fate of Venezuela, which is going through one of the most severe economic crises in its history. With over 21 million voters registered, citizen participation will be key. In addition to Maduro and González, voters will also have the option to choose from other candidates, including evangelical pastor Javier Bertucci and comedian Benjamín Rausseo, introducing a variety of voices in a contest historically dominated by chavismo. The electoral council has stated that it is ready to carry out the electoral process, but the international community is watching closely, assessing the transparency and legitimacy of elections that have been controversial in the past. The opposition has reported irregularities and limitations in the process, fueling skepticism regarding the fairness of the elections. Meanwhile, Maduro continues to promote his narrative of unity and progress, promising that his government holds "the key that opens the floodgates to the next 50 years of a Venezuela of peace, equality, and happiness." However, many Venezuelans wonder if these promises can translate into real improvements in their lives, given the difficult economic and social conditions they face daily. With political and economic uncertainty in the air, the outcome of these elections could mark a milestone in Venezuela's recent history. The lingering question is whether the electorate will choose to continue on the path laid out by Maduro or opt for a change that many believe is increasingly necessary. In a country where political polarization has led to social division, the decisions made this Sunday will resonate far beyond the immediate electoral results.