In a significant escalation of political tensions in Venezuela, opposition leader Edmundo González reported the kidnapping of his son-in-law, Rafael Tudares, in the capital city, Caracas, on Tuesday.
According to González, Tudares was abducted during a routine school drop-off with his two young grandchildren. He described on social media platform X how ‘hooded men, dressed in black,’ intercepted Tudares’ vehicle and forced him into a gold-colored van. However, González did not disclose further details regarding the safety and conditions of his grandchildren, aged 6 and 7.
This incident surfaces amid rising political tensions as Venezuela approaches the start of a new presidential term on Friday. González has been a central figure in the political landscape, especially following last year’s contested presidential election, where both he and President Nicolás Maduro claimed victory. This political rivalry has been further complicated by González’s exile to Spain in September due to an arrest warrant related to an election inquiry.
Despite these challenges, González has pledged to return to Venezuela to assume the presidency, emphasizing his intent by engaging in a diplomatic tour across the Americas. Recently, his meetings with prominent figures, including U.S. President Joe Biden and U.S. Representative Mike Waltz, highlight his efforts to garner international support against Maduro’s administration. However, González has yet to detail his plans on returning to Venezuela or navigating the complexities of the current political climate controlled by Maduro’s ruling party.
The kidnapping of Rafael Tudares adds a personal and alarming dimension to the political turmoil in Venezuela. As the nation braces for a potentially contentious presidential term, the resolution of this incident remains uncertain, intensifying the already volatile atmosphere.
Source: Wsvn
