Machado: 'Venezuelans Have Chosen Me' as Rival Factions Clash for Power

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has declared her coalition the legitimate choice of the people. She made the statement while rival groups within the opposition are fighting for control. Machado leads the main opposition alliance. She won a primary election last year. However, she is banned by the government from holding public office. Her claim comes as an interim government, led by another opposition figure, has taken control in the capital, Caracas. This interim authority was created in 2019 to challenge President Nicolás Maduro. Now, competing factions are asserting power. This creates a complex struggle for leadership within the opposition movement. Machado insists the public's decision is clear. "Venezuelans have already chosen us to govern," she said. The situation shows deep divisions as opponents of Maduro try to unite.