Colombian Exiles Targeted After Venezuelan Elections

In the Colombian city of Cúcuta, Anthony and other opposition election workers have sought refuge after receiving threats from paramilitary groups, known as "colectivos," which are loyal to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. After their volunteer work as election observers during an election that saw opposition candidate Edmundo González allegedly securing a majority vote, these men have come under fire from the government. The threats intensified post-election, as Maduro's administration refuted the claims of electoral fraud and labeled dissenters as terrorists. With their personal safety compromised, these men chose to leave their families behind and flee to Colombia. The political climate in Venezuela remains tense, with continuous accusations against opponents and a wave of political exiles heading to Colombia. The outcome raises concerns that if Maduro takes the oath of office in January, even more Venezuelans may flee to escape persecution. Celso Barbosa, who has aided several exiles, attended a protest in Colombia calling for Maduro's resignation, indicating a growing call for political change amid rising fears of repression in Venezuela.