María Corina Machado, a beacon of Venezuela’s opposition, emerged into public view Thursday for the first time in nearly a year, appearing in Oslo, Norway, as her daughter stood poised to accept the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf.
For eleven months, Machado had lived in the shadows, forced into hiding after a brief detention in Caracas while rallying supporters against the government. Her recognition wasn’t simply a political accolade; it was a testament to her unwavering, peaceful resistance in the face of mounting pressure.
A surge of emotion erupted as Machado appeared on a hotel balcony, greeted by a chorus of “Freedom!” from the assembled crowd. She raised her hand in acknowledgement, then joined her supporters in a powerful rendition of Venezuela’s national anthem – a defiant act of hope.
Though unable to travel to Oslo herself, Machado’s voice resonated through a pre-recorded message shared on the Nobel Prize website. She spoke of the extraordinary risks taken by those who helped facilitate her message, a poignant illustration of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of liberty.
Her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, accepted the prestigious award, delivering a heartfelt message from her mother: a resolute commitment to a free Venezuela, a promise that she would not abandon her people. Sosa affirmed that Machado’s return to Venezuela was imminent.
Outside the hotel, Machado embraced the outpouring of support, surrounded by well-wishers chanting “President! President!” Her response was simple, yet profound: “I want you all back in Venezuela.”
The timing of Machado’s appearance coincided with escalating international tensions. Just the day before, a Venezuelan oil tanker was seized by the United States, a move likely to further strain already fractured relations with the Maduro government.
The United States has also increased military activity near Venezuela, conducting strikes targeting alleged narcotraffickers, resulting in numerous casualties. Rhetoric from Washington has grown increasingly assertive, with warnings that Maduro’s time in power may be limited.
Machado has consistently voiced support for the actions taken by the United States against the Maduro regime and its associated networks. Following the Nobel announcement, she dedicated the prize to both the American administration and the Venezuelan people enduring immense hardship.
She recently described Venezuela as standing on the “threshold of freedom,” unveiling a “freedom manifesto” outlining a future liberated from the current government. It’s a vision fueled by unwavering determination and the hope of a nation yearning for change.
