Maduro reaffirms housing promises amid tensions and elections in Venezuela.

In an environment marked by political tension and economic uncertainty, President Nicolás Maduro has echoed his electoral promises on the eve of the elections that will define his political future in Venezuela. Despite the prohibition on conducting electoral campaigning after the campaign closure, the president did not hesitate to make bold statements about his intention to construct an ambitious number of homes in the next six years, during an event broadcast by the state channel VTV. "We are going for more; there are many people who need housing, and they will have it," Maduro assured, emphasizing his commitment to building 500,000 homes annually, which, in his opinion, could translate to at least three million homes during his hypothetical third term. His claim that "we have already started" with housing projects for 2025 aligns with his discourse of hope and development, despite the criticisms his administration has faced regarding human rights and economic management. Maduro, who has been in power since 2013, also seized the opportunity to criticize the opposition, particularly the Democratic Unitary Platform (PUD), suggesting that their proposals would lead to a regression in the rights of the people. In a context where many Venezuelans face difficulties accessing basic services, his rhetoric focuses on defending a socialist model against alternatives he associates with privatization and the enrichment of an elite. During his speech, the president posed rhetorical questions to his supporters, asking whether they were willing to accept a system similar to that of Argentina under President Javier Milei, in a clear allusion to the polarization currently present in Latin American politics. The unanimous response from his audience was a clear rejection of such proposals, reflecting the fervor that still sustains his support base amid adversity. The National Electoral Council (CNE) has made it clear that the electoral campaign ended the previous Thursday, and that any form of campaigning is prohibited. However, Maduro's actions seem to challenge these regulations, raising questions about the fairness of the electoral process and the opposition's ability to compete under just conditions. Among the candidates seeking to challenge Maduro are opposition figures such as former ambassador Edmundo González Urrutia, who represents the PUD, alongside other aspirants including evangelical pastor Javier Bertucci and comedian Benjamín Rausseo. The diversity of candidates reflects a broader political spectrum, but many wonder if they will truly be able to capitalize on popular discontent and challenge the ruling party in a context marked by repression and a lack of freedoms. The more than 21 million registered voters in the country will face a dilemma at the polls that goes beyond simply choosing a leader. The precarious economic situation, with rampant inflation and an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, has left deep scars on Venezuelan society. Maduro's promise of housing and development rhetoric may resonate with an electorate weary of the crisis, although they could also be seen as mere empty words by those who have experienced the daily difficulties firsthand. As the elections approach, tension in the country is increasing. Security forces have been deployed at various strategic points, raising concerns about the possibility of violence and repression in the electoral context. The presidential elections will not only determine Venezuela's immediate future but could also have significant repercussions in the region, given that Venezuela's situation remains a topic of international interest. Maduro's promises, while optimistic, contrast with a complex reality. The international community is watching closely, hoping for results that may indicate a change in the country's trajectory or, conversely, the continuation of a cycle of crisis. The coming days are crucial for Venezuela's fate, where the decisions made at the polls could define the path toward potential recovery or greater isolation and discontent.