Venezuelan opposition coalition reaffirms exiled Machado as leader and presses for free elections through 14 proposals for democratic transition

An alliance of Venezuelan opposition parties meeting in Caracas has reaffirmed its support for exiled Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado as its leader and renewed its demand for free elections. In a statement, the coalition set out 14 proposals for a democratic transition, including freedom for political parties, the release of all political prisoners and the safe return of people in exile. It also increased pressure on authorities to allow Machado to return to the country.

Former presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez backed the proposals in a social media post, saying the will of Venezuelans must govern the country’s destiny. Venezuela has not announced a date for a new presidential vote. The country has been led since January 3 by interim President Delcy Rodriguez of the United Socialist Party of Venezuela.

Reports have also indicated friction between the Trump administration and Machado, with anonymous U.S. officials criticizing her persistent push to return home. Meanwhile, reconciliation talks are underway between the interim government and representatives of the 2015 National Assembly. The U.S. State Department has praised the negotiations for laying the groundwork for credible elections.