Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said Tuesday that her movement is the legitimate choice to lead the country following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro by the US, even as rival authorities consolidate power in Caracas.

In an interview with CBS, Machado said that after Maduro was captured in a US military operation early last week, “the people of Venezuela have already chosen” who should govern the country.

Asked whether that meant she should assume national leadership, Machado replied: “Absolutely yes,” adding that her coalition was prepared to take responsibility.

“We are ready and willing to serve our people, as we have been mandated,” she said.

Machado, a former lawmaker who was barred from running in Venezuela’s disputed 2024 presidential election, backed veteran diplomat Edmundo Gonzalez as her coalition’s candidate.

The US and several other governments later recognized Gonzalez as president-elect, citing allegations of vote manipulation by the Maduro government.

Leadership future remains uncertain

Despite Machado’s assertions of popular support, her return to Venezuela and any formal leadership role remain unclear.

Interim President Delcy Rodriguez, who served as Maduro’s vice president, has been sworn in and currently holds executive authority.

Machado dismissed Rodriguez as “nothing like a moderate,” saying “nobody trusts her,” and pointing to her central role in the previous government.

Machado also addressed remarks by US political figures questioning her leadership prospects.

After President Donald Trump said, “She’s a very nice woman, but she doesn’t have the respect,” Machado thanked him for authorizing the operation that led to Maduro’s capture.

“President Trump’s leadership and courage has brought Nicolas Maduro to face justice and this is huge,” she said. “This is a major step towards restoring prosperity and rule of law and democracy in Venezuela.” (ANADOLU AGENCY)