"Call from the TSJ in Venezuela intensifies the political and social crisis in the country."

The recent announcement by the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (TSJ) of Venezuela to summon the candidates from the recent presidential elections has unleashed a new chapter in the country’s tumultuous political history. This move, which aims to certify the results of the electoral process, has raised eyebrows in a context where the opposition has labeled the process as fraudulent. The TSJ's decision comes after a request from the proclaimed winner, Nicolás Maduro, who seeks to legitimize himself amid increasing doubts about the transparency of the elections. The hearing is scheduled for this Friday, and both Maduro and his main opponent, Edmundo González Urrutia, are required to appear before the highest court. The tension is palpable, as Maduro has threatened González Urrutia with imprisonment, accusing him of leading a coup attempt in collusion with opposition leader María Corina Machado. The latter, along with other minor candidates, has also been summoned, creating a scenario charged with high emotional and political stakes. Caryslia Rodríguez, president of the TSJ, has stated that the electoral chamber is committed to "peace, democracy, and constitutional order." However, this declaration has been met with skepticism from analysts and opposition figures, who view this act as yet another strategy for consolidating power by the regime. The situation becomes even more complicated when considering that the National Electoral Council, also aligned with the government, declared Maduro re-elected with 51% of the votes compared to the 44% that, according to them, González Urrutia received. But the opposition is not standing idly by. They claim to have evidence contradicting the official results, asserting that they possess copies of more than 80% of the ballots, which indicate that González Urrutia received 67% of the votes. This discrepancy between the proclaimed results and the evidence presented by the opposition highlights the credibility crisis affecting the country’s electoral system. Social tensions have escalated, and since last Monday, protests have erupted, leaving a tragic toll. Human rights organizations report at least 11 deaths, although the opposition raises this figure to 20. The clashes in the streets reflect the desperation and discontent of a people who have seen their rights and freedoms systematically eroded in recent years. In this adverse context, María Corina Machado has decided to go underground, expressing her fear for her life and freedom. In an opinion piece published in The Wall Street Journal, Machado denounced the current situation and warned about the threats facing both her and González Urrutia, in a scenario where repression has intensified in response to protests of discontent. Meanwhile, Maduro continues his accusatory rhetoric, claiming that his opponents have "blood-stained hands" for instigating violence. This narrative seeks to delegitimize the opposition and justify repressive actions against them, in an attempt to consolidate his control over power and divert attention from the growing criticism of his government. The international community watches with concern and attention the unfolding of this situation. The presidential elections, denounced by many countries as a flawed process, have left the country at a crossroads, where the resolution of the political conflict does not seem to be in sight. The TSJ's summons could be an attempt to legitimize a process already in question, but it could also lead to greater polarization if not handled with transparency and fairness. Ultimately, the path toward reconciliation and democratic recovery in Venezuela is fraught with obstacles. The uncertainty surrounding the legitimacy of the electoral processes and the rising social tensions reflect a nation struggling to find its way amid adversity. The response of political actors, the population, and the international community will be crucial in determining the future of the country during these critical times.