CARACAS, Venezuela — Venezuela’s government has declared a $100,000 reward for information about opposition candidate Edmundo González Urrutia, who asserts he legitimately won the July presidential election against President Nicolás Maduro. This information was released just days before the presidential inauguration set for January 10, where Maduro will extend his reign, which began in 2013.

The Venezuelan Scientific, Criminal and Forensic Investigations Agency made the announcement via Instagram, emphasizing a context of escalating tensions within the country. The government accuses González of serious offenses, including conspiracy and forgery, which led to his exile to Spain last September after an arrest warrant was issued.

Following the government's announcement of the reward, González pledged to return to Venezuela by the inauguration date. He recently commenced an international tour, beginning with a meeting in Argentina with President Javier Milei, who is known for his critique of Maduro's regime (BBC). This follows widespread skepticism regarding the electoral outcomes claimed by Maduro, particularly the absence of detailed vote counts which are being demanded by international human rights bodies.

Despite González’s claims and the opposition's efforts to expose alleged voting irregularities, Maduro’s administration remains resolute, maintaining their narrative of a clear electoral victory. González’s representatives assert that collected voting data indicates he secured a significant lead over Maduro, a claim previously validated by both the (Los Angeles Times) and international observers (CNN).

As anticipation builds around his potential return and the inauguration of Maduro, González's situation is fraught with risks. Maduro’s government has indicated a commitment to neutralizing opposition leaders, increasing concerns about González’s safety should he decide to come back to Venezuela.