Venezuelan President, Nicolás Maduro, instructed the National Bolivarian Armed Forces to initiate plans for a comprehensive security layout in anticipation of upcoming elections.
The announcement was made during a military event broadcasted on the state-run VTV channel.
Presidential elections are scheduled for next year, where the opposition hopes to challenge the ruling party that has been in power since 1999.
The government, on the other hand, aims for another six-year term.
Maduro emphasized that the security initiative, known as “Plan República”, will ensure citizens can exercise their rights and have their voices heard.
Many Venezuelans privately suggest however that Maduro relies on the military to secure his power, particularly if he were to lose the election.
Maduro touted Venezuela’s electoral system as the “most transparent and reliable” in the world.
Despite past challenges, including protests and alleged conspiracies, Maduro highlighted Venezuela’s commitment to democratic processes.
Over the past 24 years, 29 elections have taken place, with the ruling party claiming victory in 27.
Any losses, such as in the 2015 parliamentary elections, were promptly acknowledged.
Maduro also discussed financial challenges, mentioning alleged misappropriations involving Citgo, a subsidiary of state-owned Pdvsa in the US. Efforts are underway to recover these funds.
Last March, Maduro affirmed that the 2024 presidential elections would proceed as scheduled, ensuring continuity of democracy and peace.
The opposition is gearing up for internal primaries on October 22nd, with 13 contenders.
The aim is to select a united front candidate to challenge the ruling party in 2024, whose official candidate is yet to be announced.