Venezuela Elections 2024 results, live | The National Electoral Council declared Maduro the winner with 51.2% of the vote compared to Edmundo González’s 44.2%.

High expectations and internet cuts in Cuba as they await election results in Venezuela

Many Cubans are experiencing the Venezuelan elections as if they were actually taking place not in the south of the continent, but in the very center of the Caribbean Sea. They are convinced of the long arm of change, and that the end of 25 years of Chavismo could be the catalyst for the end of 65 years of Castroism. People have flooded their social networks with messages of support and encouragement, they are excited to see Maria Corina Machado driving a motorcade through the streets of Caracas, and they want to see the same caravan pass through the center of Havana.

Although the possibility of elections in Cuba, where the opposition reaches the polls with such strength, seems almost unimaginable today, what is happening this Sunday in Venezuela has given hope to Cubans who are demanding a change in the system. Prominent figures such as singer Yotuel Romero, one of the writers of the song Motherland and lifehas come out to support the opposition candidacy of Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia. “As you, Maria Corina Machado, shine like a light in the midst of darkness, may your determination and faith guide the mission to bring hope and freedom to Venezuela,” the artist wrote on Facebook. Renowned Cuban comedian Alexis Valdes publicly expressed his desire for change: “Venezuela, I hope you achieve this. For your people, for Latin America, for the world. My best wishes are with you, your future and your freedom.”

From the island, several activists and independent journalists have denounced the internet cuts since election day began. Journalist Yoani Sánchez also assured through his, 14ymediathat the illegal satellite dish service that allows Cubans access to television channels from the United States, Mexico and other countries has “been conveniently suspended.” He also assured that there is a police presence in Havana.

As expected, the Cuban government has provided full support to its ally Nicolás Maduro. This Sunday, July 28, which coincides with the 70th birthday of Hugo Chávez, the official press and President Miguel Díaz-Canel ignored the anxiety felt at seeing the possibility of change so close, and once again praised the figure of the deceased leader. “Today, on his 70th birthday, #Chávez lives on and mobilizes his people on another civic day of the #BolivarianRevolution,” the Cuban ruler said, adding that a person in power beyond Maduro would be suitable for him. Over the years, Cuba has exported medical personnel and other professionals, and trained members of the South American country’s intelligence and military. On the other hand, the largest amount of oil on the island comes from Venezuela. Cuba has also been connected since 2011 to the ALBA-1 submarine cable owned by Telecom Venezuela and the Cuban company Transbit. The Havana government is terrified of what could happen if the opposition wins.