Dressed in traditional red, the color of socialism, President Nicolas Maduro stood in front of the Venezuelan congress and announced the late president Hugo Chavez the “eternal leader” of Venezuela.

Maduro’s ability to capture and maintain control kept the third meeting of congress moving forward, which was impressive considering this was the first meeting without Chavez leading the way.

In recent months, Maduro has faced criticism from Marxists that believe his socialist regime is feeble in comparison to Chavez’s. Supporting criticisms is the fact that Venezuela has the, “highest inflation rate in the continent at 62 percent in the 12 months to June,” according to Reuters.

This inflation rate has caused price distortions and, while it benefits those in the black market, civilians are struggling financially. Cuts in water and energy have Venezuelans up in arms as their needs continue to be ignored. These daily strifes add to the claims that Maduro has failed his nation in improving living standards.

This tension is visible within the government, with parties openly stating their dissent. Jorge Giordani, former planning minister and a close adviser to Chavez, wrote in an open letter address to Maduro that the he “fails to transmit leadership,” which creates “a power vacuum situation” and “clears the way for the reinstatement of financial mechanisms” in Venezuela, as reported by the Buenos Aires Herald.

Throughout the nation, many are waiting to see improvements in daily life. As a former bus driver, Maduro has expansive shoes to fill following Chavez, who served the country prosperously.

The harsh opinions of Maduro led him to address prevalent issues in Venezuela and dispel thoughts that he is not taking any actions to improve conditions at the six-day national congress. Maduro managed to dim the flame and unite everyone to continue stabilizing the Venezuelan government, such as by agreeing on an inflation rate.

Anger continues to build as Venezuelans wait to see improvements and there is a high possibility of a revolt if actions are not taken to eradicate the increasing level of poverty.

– Elena Lopez

Sources: Reuters, Stabroek News Buenos Aires Herald
Photo: CNN