Maduro Declares Early Christmas Season in Venezuela

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has declared the Christmas season to begin early, starting October 1, despite backlash from the Venezuelan Bishops' Conference (CEV) and widespread public discontent. Maduro's decree, which he claims aims to bring joy and gratitude to the people after the controversial July 28 elections, has been seen by many as a political maneuver to divert attention from the country's ongoing economic crisis and allegations of election fraud. The government has decorated Caracas with Christmas lights and held festive events, with officials like Diosdado Cabello insisting that the celebrations reflect happiness in the nation. However, many Venezuelans, struggling with severe economic hardships, view the early festivities as a mockery of their plight. The CEV has condemned the use of Christmas for political purposes, emphasizing that the traditional celebration begins with Advent in December. This early declaration has further fueled tensions amid ongoing protests against the Maduro regime and its legitimacy.