Crisis in Venezuela: TSJ calls on candidates amid protests and distrust.

The recent announcement by the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (TSJ) of Venezuela has generated a torrent of reactions in both the political sphere and civil society. The court, considered by many to be an appendage of Nicolás Maduro's government, has summoned the candidates from the recent presidential elections amid accusations of fraud and rising tensions. This decision comes at Maduro's request, who seeks certification from the highest judicial authority of the electoral process that proclaimed him the winner. The summons includes Maduro, his main opponent Edmundo González Urrutia, and eight other candidates who participated in the elections. This action has been interpreted as a strategic move by the government to legitimize an electoral outcome that has been questioned by the opposition. TSJ President Caryslia Rodríguez stated that the aim of this hearing is to "certify without restrictions" the results of the electoral process, in an attempt to demonstrate that the court acts with transparency and a commitment to democracy. However, the opposition has dismissed this process as a mere formality aimed at consolidating a victory they consider illegitimate. González Urrutia, who was declared the candidate of the Unitary Platform, has claimed to have clear evidence of receiving 67% of the votes. The discrepancy between his claim and the 51% attributed to Maduro by the National Electoral Council (CNE) has generated an atmosphere of distrust and unrest among the populace. The situation has become more tense following protests that erupted earlier this week, which have been reported as violent and have resulted in at least 11 deaths, according to human rights organizations. This number rises to 20 according to figures provided by the opposition, underscoring the seriousness of the crisis facing the country. The demonstrations have been a desperate cry from an electorate that feels betrayed and has begun to lose hope for significant political change. Amid this context, figures like María Corina Machado, an opposition leader, have expressed fear for their safety, indicating the level of repression that has intensified in recent days. Machado, who is currently in hiding, has denounced that her life is at risk following Maduro's threats to imprison her. "You have blood on your hands," the president accused, solidifying his confrontational stance towards his adversaries. With the TSJ hearing scheduled for Friday at 2:00 PM local time, expectations are high. The government hopes that this action will serve as a balm for the growing distrust and social discontent. However, the opposition has made it clear that they will not be intimidated and will continue to fight for what they consider their right to democracy. The repercussions both inside and outside Venezuela are uncertain. Many analysts observe that the outcome of this situation could significantly impact the country's relations with the international community, which has been attentive to human rights violations and the undemocratic practices of Maduro's regime. As the date for the TSJ hearing approaches, the atmosphere in the country is tense, and the population will be closely watching for any signs of justice and transparency in the electoral process. The international community will also be vigilant, awaiting a clear and strong response to what many consider an attempt by Maduro to reinforce his power through illegitimate means. The reality is that the struggle for democracy in Venezuela continues, with each side defining its strategies in an increasingly polarized landscape. Meanwhile, the Venezuelan people face the harsh reality of a political and economic crisis that continues to affect their daily lives. Hopes for significant change will largely depend on the opposition's ability to unite and present a viable alternative to a regime that seems determined to remain in power at all costs.