Brazil recognizes Guaidó as Venezuela’s interim president
Brazil is among the first countries in Latin America to recognize Congress member Juan Guaidó as interim president of Venezuela. On his Twitter account, President Jair Bolsonaro, who is currently attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, reiterated the Brazilian support for the recently declared government.
“Brazil will politically and economically support the transition process, so that democracy and social peace can be restored to Venezuela,” Bolsonaro wrote. Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Relations also released a statement recognizing Guaidó.
In a number of cities across Venezuela, various demonstrations both for and against President Nicolás Maduro have been staged. Amid such turmoil, Guaidó declared himself the country’s interim president. “Today, January 23, in my condition as head of the National Assembly, invoking the articles of the Bolivarian Constitution of Venezuela, before God Almighty, I swear to formally assume the powers of the National Executive as the president in charge of Venezuela,” he declared.
Before the oath, Guaidó reiterated his promise to grant amnesty to the military agents leaving Maduro and urged them to remain “on the side of the people.” There must be a reaction, he said, to the “usurpation” of the power by the president, in order for a transition government to be installed and free elections to be held.
Clashes were reported between anti-government protesters and police agents. One teenager is said to have been shot and killed.
Ripples overseas
The US government also expressed its opinion recognizing Guaidó as the leader of Venezuela. The decision was underscored by President Donald Trump and vice-President Mike Pence on their Twitter pages. Luis Almagro, secretary-general with the Organization of American States (OAS), followed suit.
Guaidó’s position was also acknowledged by Argentina, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Guatemala.
The situation facing Venezuela deteriorated after Maduro won the presidential election for a new tenure, which is challenged by the international community. He took office on January 10. In the views of Brazil, the Lima Group—which comprises 14 countries—and the Organization of American States, Maduro’s post is illegitimate and the National Constituent Assembly should take over and hold new elections.
