These Venezuelans protesting against the government are not leaving the streets. They are barricading roads with trash and even bathtubs as part of their “sit-ins” on April 24.
It’s been nearly a month of political unrest.
Ten protesters have been killed so far during clashes with security forces. At least 10 people have also died during nighttime looting.
President Nicolás Maduro blames the unrest on U.S. influence, while protesters think he’s become a dictator.
The protesters’ main demand is for elections that Maduro had canceled.
The tension is exacerbated by an economic crisis that has resulted in food and medicine shortages, inflation, and violent crime.
“[We protest] So that they guarantee all of our constitutional rights, to get rid of this corrupt and incapable regime which has brought losses and destruction. [It’s for all of] Us who have had to send our kids abroad because of the lack of safety and food, and those of us who have sick parents and no medicine. For a better future,” said Zenon Prusa, a demonstrator.
The unrest is Venezuela’s worst since 2014 when 43 people died in months of mayhem sparked by protests against Maduro, the 54-year-old successor to late leftist leader Hugo Chávez.
