Venezuelan Migrants Face Harsh Conditions Amid Political Turmoil

LAJAS BLANCAS, Panama (AP) — Venezuelan migrants are navigating the dangerous Darien Gap, a daunting jungle passage between Colombia and Panama, propelled by a lack of faith in political change following disputed election results in their home country. Many of those making the journey cite their disillusionment with the electoral process that saw President Nicolás Maduro remain in power, despite opposition claims of a landslide victory for his competitor.

Enrique Dordis, a 46-year-old former taxi driver from Carabobo, Venezuela, embarked on the journey with his family after losing hope in a change of leadership. “We stayed waiting for the election (results) because if Maduro left (power) then we would stay. But nothing happened,” Dordis explained as he recounted the difficulties faced during their four-day trek through the jungle. They endured violent weather, including raging rivers and heavy downpours, in their pursuit of a better future.

The number of people crossing the Darien reached over half a million last year, surpassing previous records, as Venezuelans continue to flee economic and political instability. The recent disputed election in July appears to have exacerbated the situation, prompting fears of a renewed surge in migrants leaving the country.

Rosimar Angulo, another Venezuelan migrant now residing at a Red Cross reception center in Lajas Blancas, expressed her frustration with the election outcome, labeling it “a total fraud.” Angulo, like many others, made her way to the camp after several days of arduous travel through the jungle, hoping to find refuge in the United States.

Despite a temporary slowing in migration, the unresolved results have intensified dissatisfaction among Venezuelans. Many decided to wait for a potential change spurred by opposition demonstrations led by María Corina Machado and the candidacy of Henrique Capriles, who has since left the country.

Migrant Laura Naveda, traveling with 13 family members, stated, “For us, the same government winning again means there will be no improvement in the country.” The sentiment captures the pervasive despair that is motivating many Venezuelans to take on the treacherous journey, risking their lives for the hope of a better life elsewhere.