The President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, shared on his social media an image that was given to him as a gift by the Peasant Congress, accompanied by the message: «What a gift! I am one of you. President-People, People-President!» The photograph symbolizes the bond between the president and the agricultural workers, reinforcing his discourse of closeness to the grassroots.
Last Friday, July 18, Maduro led the Founding Peasant Congress at the Poliedro de Caracas (Caracas Polyhdron Hall), where he proposed the creation of the Ezequiel Zamora National Peasant Union (UNCEZ) within 60 days. This initiative seeks to unify all the country’s peasant organizations and movements under a single structure, strengthening their capacity for action and representation.
In addition, the head of state announced that the first National Peasant Consultation will be held on September 18th, aimed at approving resources and direct financing for productive projects. This process will also mark the beginning of the formation of Peasant Councils in rural areas, promoting direct community participation:
«Peasant power to Overcome,» emphasized Maduro during the event, emphasizing the importance of organization and training to consolidate the Peasant Union. His speech reinforced the government’s commitment to the agricultural sector, presenting it as a fundamental pillar in the fight for food sovereignty and economic development.
The tribute, featuring the president’s image and statements, reflect his strategy of identifying with the grassroots, a key element of his political narrative. By defining himself as «one more» of the peasant community, Maduro seeks to strengthen his leadership through emotional connection and recognition of this historically marginalized sector.
With these actions, the Venezuelan government aims to strengthen its support in rural areas, promoting peasant organizations as a key political and productive player in the national agenda. Will this initiative consolidate greater participation and bring real benefits to rural workers? Time will tell.