Machado Accepts Nobel Peace Prize, Vows Return to Venezuela Despite Risks
Machado Accepts Nobel Peace Prize, Vows Return to Venezuela Despite Risks
María Corina Machado, the Venezuelan opposition leader, has accepted the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, though her daughter received it on her behalf before Machado made a public appearance. The Nobel Committee lauded Machado’s decades-long commitment to free and fair elections and a peaceful transition to democracy in Venezuela. In her speech, Machado emphasized democracy’s necessity for peace and the need to fight for freedom. The Venezuelan government criticized the ceremony as a “political show,” with Vice President Rodríguez labeling the award “blood-stained.” Machado traveled to Oslo via Curaçao and the USA, and is scheduled to meet Norwegian officials. Despite facing investigations for treason and the risk of arrest or denied entry, the 58-year-old has unequivocally stated her intention to return to Venezuela, asserting her place is where she can best serve her cause. She remains a pivotal figure in the Venezuelan opposition.