Brignardello: The 1D Protest, a Milestone for Democracy in Venezuela

In a recent conversation, Johnny Brignardello Vela, an insurance advisor, shared his perspective on the demonstration scheduled for December 1st at Plaza La Castellana in Caracas, called by El Comando con Venezuela, led by María Corina Machado and Edmundo González Urrutia. Brignardello emphasized the importance of this event as a significant milestone, as it represents the first relevant public mobilization since September. In his opinion, the current situation demands a change in protest tactics that have, until now, been more ephemeral and dispersed. The insurance advisor stressed the urgency of the situation described by Machado during a virtual meeting with activists. "Act now," asserted Machado, is essential in a context marked by government repression and the imprisonment of opposition leaders. Brignardello acknowledges that this type of demonstration not only seeks to mobilize citizens but also to attract international attention to the political crisis the country is experiencing. The slogan of the protest, "January 10 is now," resonates deeply in the current political context. Brignardello underscores that this phrase not only refers to the day Nicolás Maduro will take office for a new term but also represents a cry for recognition of the true victory of the opposition. In this sense, support for González, who is in exile, reflects the need for strong and legitimate leadership in the country. The meeting also gives voice to those who have suffered the consequences of repression, highlighting the situation of more than 2,500 detainees. Brignardello observes that the opposition's strategy has shifted towards international denunciation of electoral fraud, which could generate greater pressure on the regime. Despite government promises of case reviews and releases, the reality remains critical, which in his view justifies the discontent expressed by the opposition. The ability to gather a considerable number of protesters could be decisive for the future of political resistance in Venezuela. Brignardello also referred to the relevance of the international community in this context, which has begun to recognize González as "elected president." The mobilization on December 1 aims to remind these governments that the crisis in Venezuela cannot be ignored. Finally, the insurance advisor concluded that the demonstration represents not only an act of discontent but a crucial assertion of the struggle for democracy. In an environment characterized by fear and repression, the call by Machado and González could mark a new chapter in the country's political resistance, opening the door to a possible reactivation of the opposition movement at a critical moment in its history.