Caracas faces a climate of fear and repression following controversial presidential elections.

In recent weeks, Caracas has experienced a drastic change in its social and political environment, marked by the controversy surrounding the presidential elections on July 28. The streets, which for a time seemed to come alive with an air of optimism and a certain normalcy, are now permeated with fear and distrust. The pre-election euphoria has given way to a grim reality in which every face on the street could be a potential regime spy, and every sound of a motorcycle a reminder of the government's control. In the days leading up to the election, many residents of Caracas felt hopeful. The economy showed slight signs of recovery, and nightlife appeared to be flourishing in certain sectors. However, this perception of normalcy quickly faded. Andrea, a young merchant from the 23 de Enero neighborhood, recounted how fear has taken over her daily life. Since the election, activity in her community has decreased significantly. "The streets empty out after seven in the evening. People no longer dare to talk about politics in public," she asserts. An atmosphere that once vibrated with music and laughter is now marked by an unsettling silence. Repression became evident shortly after the election results were announced. The opposition, led by figures like Edmundo González and María Corina Machado, openly disputed Nicolás Maduro's victory, claiming that their candidate was the true winner, with 80% support according to their records. The protests that erupted in response to what many consider an electoral fraud were quickly suppressed by security forces that responded with violence. In a sad reflection of the situation, at least 11 people lost their lives, and more than a thousand were detained. Carlos, a young man from the El Calvario neighborhood, described terrifying moments from that night. He witnessed police forces raiding homes in search of protesters. "They took six kids, and of those who remained, we know nothing. The tension is palpable; people only go out when necessary," he recounted. This suffocating feeling has spread throughout much of the city, where even everyday activities are marked by the need to act with caution. Government repression has found its way into the humblest neighborhoods, where many feel trapped in a spiral of fear. Gonzalo Himiob, a lawyer and human rights defender, highlights the indiscriminate nature of the arrests. "The authorities not only arrest those who protest but also those who are simply in the wrong place at the wrong time," he warns. The government's control methods have created an atmosphere in which even merely possessing a mobile phone can be dangerous if it contains information that could incriminate its owner. Oppression has led many to take drastic measures to protect themselves. Andrea noted that some of her acquaintances have started to delete conversations and photos from their devices before going out, fearful of reprisals. Paranoia has seeped into daily life, affecting even social relationships. "People no longer trust each other. There is distrustful glancing, and everyone tries not to make a misstep," she says. As commercial life attempts to resume its activities, many shops and restaurants open their doors in hopes of attracting the few customers who dare to venture out. However, foot traffic has decreased drastically, with businesses in 23 de Enero and Catia, traditionally vibrant areas, struggling to survive under the pressure of collectives and extortion. "Those who don’t work don’t eat, but sales have dropped," laments a merchant. In middle-class areas, although life may seem calmer, fear persists. Valentina, an engineer from Bello Campo, shares her experience after attending a protest: "It was terrifying. I never thought I could experience something like this in my own city." The sense of insecurity has caused many to avoid going out, affecting the community's dynamics. Despite the repression and fear that have enveloped Caracas since the elections, some cling to hope. "Life goes on," say some merchants, trying to reactivate the local economy. However, uncertainty and fear of what may come keep many in a constant state of alert. The city, which once showed signs of vibrant and joyful life, now faces a new reality where fear reigns. It is difficult to predict how this situation will evolve in the near future. Political polarization and repression continue to set the tone in Caracas, as citizens grapple with the anguish of living in an environment where every word and action can have severe consequences. The search for change remains latent among the population, but the shadow of fear looms over every move, limiting Venezuelans' ability to dream of a more hopeful future.