The recent earthquakes in Venezuela have led to a public outcry against the government’s disaster response. Despite the risk of imprisonment, Venezuelans are criticizing their leaders openly.

In La Guaira, the region most affected by the earthquakes, citizens have been vocal in their frustration. They have confronted police and National Guard members, accusing them of inactivity while civilians and international aid workers search for survivors and victims.

Venezuelans have spoken out against the ruling party and its leader, Delcy Rodríguez. This level of criticism was nearly unheard of just a year ago. People’s anger also extends to the Trump administration due to its recent economic deals with Venezuela and its support for the government’s handling of the disaster.

In Venezuela, the fear of imprisonment and torture once kept people silent. However, increasing feelings of frustration and helplessness are now overcoming those fears.

One resident, José Silva, shared his sentiments, stating, “Why would I be afraid?” He was resting near the ruins of a large public housing complex that housed around 700 families.