In the wake of recent earthquakes in Venezuela, citizens are expressing anger over the government’s disaster response despite the risk of imprisonment.
As rescue efforts transition to recovery, a divide has emerged in Venezuelan society. People speak out against the repressive government with an openness not seen in years.
La Guaira, the most affected northern state, has witnessed grieving citizens confronting police and National Guard members. They accuse them of being inactive while civilians and international aid workers search for survivors and victims.
Many Venezuelans openly criticize the ruling party and its leader, Delcy Rodríguez. This open criticism would have been unimaginable a year ago.
Anger extends toward the Trump administration, which has been making economic deals with Venezuela. The administration’s support of the government’s disaster management exacerbates public frustration.
Traditionally, fear of imprisonment, torture, and forced exile curbed public dissent. Now, frustration drives many to speak out.
“Why would I be afraid?” said José Silva, 47, resting near a demolished public housing complex that housed around 700 families.