They Ran a Campaign in Hiding. Now They Wait

In a remarkable turn of events, key officials from Venezuela's opposition have been conducting a presidential campaign from the safety of an Argentine diplomatic residence in Caracas for the past five months. This unusual situation has arisen as they navigate the country's political turmoil while remaining in hiding to avoid arrest by the government of President Nicolás Maduro. Each day, these officials, led by prominent figure María Corina Machado, awaken to the scenic views of Caracas but are acutely aware of the risks that come with stepping outside their compound. The residence, located between the embassies of Russia and North Korea, has become a strategic base for orchestrating one of the most significant electoral efforts in Venezuela's recent history. Despite their confinement, the opposition officials have successfully organized a voter turnout initiative that saw millions participate in the recent elections. They also mobilized thousands of monitors to gather tally sheets, aiming to substantiate claims of victory for their candidate. This grassroots effort reflects their determination to challenge the Maduro regime, even from within the confines of their diplomatic sanctuary. However, the outcome of their efforts remains bleak, as Maduro continues to hold power, leaving the opposition leaders still trapped within the Argentine compound. Their situation underscores the ongoing struggle for democracy in Venezuela and the lengths to which opposition figures must go to resist an increasingly authoritarian government.