Wednesday, January 6th, 2016. After 17 long years, Venezuela launched a new National Assembly, mostly composed by members of the opposition to the government side. The new Congress was installed on Tuesday, ensuring that its priority will be the comptroller of the Government; which predicts times of great tension between the powers of this country, which is mired in a severe economic crisis.
The surrounding of the Congress, were guarded by hundreds of police officers and national guards; including riot equipment and metal barriers on the main roads, to limit the flow of vehicles and pedestrians. Three rings of security were also placed to control access to the Federal Legislative Palace, and six stations of the Caracas metro was closed for security reasons.
This is due to because both, the government party and the opposition called for their supporters, creating a perfect environment for a possible confrontation between the two groups; indeed, it has already happened in other times. However, the installation of the new assembly took place under a remarkable peace and tranquility.
Meanwhile, President Nicolas Maduro asked his followers to let the event pass calmly and also asked the armed forces to ensure order during the formation of the parliament; so the west area of the Miraflores Presidential Palace was destined by the Government followers, while opposition was on the east area of the National Assembly.
However, at the same event where the president called for calm, he did not dismiss in make an attack to the opposition; accusing them of seeking to destabilize the country. It also requested that a possible national emergency decree wasn’t blocked, which would be announced in the near future to address the economic crisis affecting Venezuelans; plus, excessive inflation reached triple digits and, according to some experts. Given all this, one cannot fail to mention the severe shortages of food, medicines and other commodities that are causing social imbalance between the citizens of this Republic.
Also, a group of 20 government demonstrators; They gathered at the park El Calvario, dressed in black pants and shirts and some with their faces covered with a red handkerchief. His intention was to show that they were ready to defend the revolution from the streets and peacefully.
The installation of the new National Assembly, with 112 members of the opposition; It comes amid much uncertainty and political tension. Many fear some possible street demonstrations due to the recent decision by the Supreme Court suspended the swearing in of three opposition members and ruling.
Last Sunday afternoon, Henry Ramos, won the presidency of the National Assembly with the votes of the opposition. However, there is unknown whether the ruling will respect the decision taken democratically.
ALFA