True change in Venezuela requires more than Maduro’s exit
For many Venezuelans, the removal of Nicolás Maduro represents a long-awaited moment of accountability. But relief alone does not guarantee confidence in what comes next, writes Emilio Buitrago.
As events continue to unfold in my native Venezuela, many members of the ex-pat community are experiencing a complex mix of emotions, relief, hope, concern, and caution.
For many Venezuelans, the removal of Nicolás Maduro represents a long-awaited moment of accountability. His rule, following that of Hugo Chávez, was marked by repression, corruption, and the systematic destruction of a once-prosperous nation.
Millions were forced into exile, a quarter of the population fled the country, families were separated, and basic human rights were violated. The end of that chapter brings real relief.
But relief alone does not guarantee confidence in what comes next.
The announcement during President Donald Trump’s press conference that Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez has assumed control is deeply troubling to most Venezuelans.
Rodríguez has been one of the architects of the system that caused Venezuela’s humanitarian, economic, and institutional collapse. She is not a neutral caretaker, but part of the inner circle that enabled abuses and dismantled democratic institutions. Replacing one figure while leaving the rest of the structure intact is not meaningful change.
It is also important to be clear about Venezuela’s resources. Venezuela’s oil belongs to the Venezuelan people.
While it is legitimate for the United States to seek restitution for assets unlawfully expropriated during Hugo Chávez’s presidency, including those taken from companies such as ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips, any resolution must respect Venezuelan sovereignty and ensure that future revenues benefit the population, not another authoritarian elite.
Most importantly, Venezuela already chose change. In July 2024, voters chose to send Edmundo González to the Miraflores Palace — Venezuela’s White House — in a historic election. Despite efforts by the democratic opposition to expose and counter electoral manipulation, the regime-controlled National Electoral Council ignored the will of the people. That denial of a democratic mandate lies at the heart of today’s crisis.
What Venezuelans at home and abroad are asking for is not chaos or vengeance, but a protected and legitimate transition — one that respects the 2024 election results and seats González as president. Without safeguards, accountability, and international oversight, Venezuela risks repeating a painful cycle or sliding into further instability.
» READ MORE: For Venezuelans in the U.S., the recent election was not just a political event but a pivotal moment | Opinion
Many Venezuelans are also concerned by statements suggesting the United States would “run Venezuela” during a transition. International pressure and support matter, but prolonged foreign administration raises serious questions about sovereignty and accountability.
Venezuela’s recovery must be led by Venezuelans chosen by their people.
We welcome the possibility of change, but remain vigilant. Venezuela has suffered too much to endure another false transition. Our hope is for peace, unity, and a democratic future that finally honors the will and dignity of its people.
Emilio Buitrago is the cofounder and former president of Casa de Venezuela Philadelphia, where he continues to serve as an advisory board member. An engineer and project manager, he also serves as advisory board member of the Venezuelan American Caucus.