In the aftermath of devastating earthquakes, Venezuelans are voicing their displeasure with their government’s response, risking imprisonment. This marks a significant change in a society where such open dissent has been rare.
The hardest-hit area, La Guaira, has become a focal point of public unrest. Citizens there accuse police and National Guard members of inaction while both locals and international aid workers sift through the rubble.
Criticism is also being directed at Venezuela’s leadership, specifically Delcy Rodríguez, and even at the Trump administration. Recent months have seen U.S. economic deals with Venezuela, drawing ire for perceived support of the government’s disaster management.
Increased public frustration is diminishing the fear of retribution, such as imprisonment or torture, that has long kept dissent at bay. José Silva, a 47-year-old resident affected by the earthquake, expressed his newfound resolve, asking, “Why would I be afraid?” near the ruins of a collapsed public housing complex that had housed about 700 families.
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