New Wave of Anti-Government Protests in Venezuela

Opponents and protesters against Nicolás Maduro's government have once again taken to the streets to protest the political and economic situation, the crisis caused by power outages, and other issues, demanding Maduro's resignation. Reuters reports that citizens and protesters in Venezuela say the country's conditions have worsened over the past month, amid ongoing crises of power outages, hyperinflation, and shortages of food, medical, and sanitary supplies. In addition to widespread power outages, the water supply and telecommunications networks in Venezuela are now facing problems as well. Juan Guaidó, the opposition leader who has challenged Nicolás Maduro's legitimacy as President of Venezuela, has called for a new wave of protests and demonstrations. Guaidó states that this new wave of protests is the 'final' blow to force Maduro to resign. According to AFP, he told a large crowd of marchers in Caracas, the capital, 'Everyone come to the streets. Let the final stage to end this usurping government begin.' Guaidó has urged opponents to increase pressure and double their efforts to end Maduro's government. Citing the Venezuelan constitution, Guaidó has declared himself interim president while rejecting the legitimacy of last year's presidential elections and thus considers Maduro's government illegitimate. He enjoys the support of the United States and over 50 other countries. On the other hand, Nicolás Maduro has labeled Guaidó as a U.S. agent and stated that 'the law will be enforced against him.' He has the backing of the country's military, Russia, Iran, China, and several other countries. Protesters on Saturday chanted, 'Water is gone, electricity is gone, it's time for Maduro to go.' More than a week ago, Maduro announced that to combat the crisis caused by shortages and outages of electricity and water, the working hours of offices would be reduced for 30 days and schools would be temporarily closed. Guaidó attributes the current crisis, including in water, electricity, and energy, to the government's inefficiency. Maduro, on the other hand, has claimed without providing specific evidence that the power outages are due to 'sabotage' by the U.S. and government opponents. Protests against Maduro have also erupted in other cities besides Caracas. Maduro's supporters, wearing red clothing, have gathered near the presidential palace. AFP reports that two of Guaidó's deputies were arrested during the protests in the west of the country, but Guaidó announced hours later that both had been released. A member of the Venezuelan parliament told the news agency that protesters in western areas faced violence from the National Guard and government-supporting militias known as 'colectivos.'