Power System Collapse, Crisis of Democracy

Formerly efficient regional service companies, such as Enelven in Zulia state, became inefficient after being seized and politicized by the central government.

Despite former President Hugo Chávez's promise in 2011 to build a top-tier power system, the country currently relies almost entirely on the Guri Dam. Thermal power plants across the nation are either malfunctioning or neglected.

Specifically, Zulia state suffers extreme power outages, with electricity cut for 16 hours daily. Guanipa proposed restoring the thermal power system and exploring the introduction of alternative energy sources in untapped areas as solutions.

The 4th Foro América Libre, held in Mexico, saw participation from over 20 countries. Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua were identified as the three main countries facing democratic challenges, and solutions for democratization were discussed.

Biagio Pilieri and William Dávila participated in the Venezuela panel discussion, concluding that the current situation is an irreversible process. Guanipa urged for the institutionalization of the state through presidential elections.

Guanipa asserted that state institutionalization, rule of law, separation of powers, respect for human rights, and legal stability are essential conditions for attracting foreign investment. Creating an environment that foreign investors can trust is key to economic recovery.

He stated that holding presidential elections promptly is crucial for sustained economic growth, beyond a mere increase in crude oil production (from 1 million to 1.1 million barrels).

The moderator inquired about the IMF's willingness to establish an office in Venezuela and the potential economic benefits. Guanipa noted that Venezuela has lost trillions of dollars in quotas due to its lack of recognition by international economic organizations.

He believes that the rule of law and an institutionalized state system must precede the effective utilization of economic resources. Without legal certainty, he stated, no one will invest in Venezuela.

The presence of Delcy Rodríguez undermines the nation's legal certainty and obstructs investment attraction.

Participants at the Foro América Libre forum expressed high hopes for the restoration of Venezuela's democratic standing. María Corina Machado's leadership was identified as the sole force capable of channeling public discontent and anger into peaceful and democratic votes.

Machado's return could also be a favorable option for the current ruling party in managing national discontent.

The moderator asked whether reforms to the 'Anti-Hate Law' (Ley contra el Odio) were sufficient, or if repeal was necessary. Guanipa criticized the law as being passed by an illegally constituted constituent assembly and designed as a tool to undermine democracy.

Creating an environment where citizens can express their opinions without fear of punishment or retaliation is paramount.

Since the implementation of the Anti-Hate Law, many have suffered imprisonment, persecution, and torture. Partial amendment is insufficient; the entire law must be repealed.

It is necessary to return to the former constitution, which enshrined political pluralism, and completely eliminate ideological bias.

Guanipa criticized the Anti-Hate Law for being used to protect the state, not the people. In his view, the state is a tool that exists for society, and the people do not exist for the state.

The state is a fictional entity created by agreement among citizens to achieve goals that individuals cannot accomplish alone.

Guanipa demanded the formation of a new Supreme Court (TSJ) and National Electoral Council (CNE) as outcomes of the negotiation table. Tangible results, such as confirming the presidential election schedule by the end of December, must be achieved.

Operating judicial and electoral candidate recommendation committees in parallel could have significantly expedited appointments.

Guanipa emphasized that the formation of a new judiciary and electoral council, along along with a presidential election schedule, are essential for Venezuela's democratic recovery.