Nicolás Maduro Guerra spoke out again following his father's capture and did so with a statement crafted to protect him within the Chavista narrative, in which he asserts that “he did not sell out, did not betray Chávez, ever.”
In an exchange with Venezuelan media, the deputy assured that the detained former president “is fine, he is calm” and sought to draw a red line amid the political turbulence, stating that when discussing “traitors,” the surname Maduro should not be mentioned; when speaking of “loyal ones,” it should.
The message comes at a time when the government is trying to showcase unity and continuity under the leadership of Delcy Rodríguez as acting president, while rumors, suspicions, and fears about potential internal fractures within Chavismo are growing.
In that atmosphere, Maduro Guerra resorted to a language of heroism, family, and faith, stating that “I have no choice, we have no choice,” emphasizing that his responsibility is “to the people” and “to my father.”
The promise was direct and symbolic, stating that “we are going to bring him back… and we will face the people,” he said, portraying the return as a public scene of vindication in Maiquetía, with a reception and a show of strength.
In his words, he admitted that he still hasn't been able to talk to him. "Not yet. We're working on it. I can't say more," he confirmed.
Days earlier, Maduro Guerra issued a political warning, stating that "history will tell who the traitors were," in clear reference to a possible betrayal that led to the capture of his father and his wife Cilia Flores.
In the new phase that has begun following the fall of the dictator, chavismo is not only up against Washington, but is also dealing with fear of mass exodus, distrust, and the search for scapegoats.
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