Caracas News
news
Caracas remains tense as opposition leaders call for renewed protests following the controversial disqualification of prominent candidate María Corina Machado from the 2024 presidential race. The city faces another week of water rationing as drought conditions persist, affecting over 2 million residents. Meanwhile, authorities report progress in restoring power to western neighborhoods after a major blackout left parts of the capital without electricity for 18 hours.
Business News
Venezuela's central bank announces a new foreign exchange platform as the bolivar continues its rapid devaluation, now trading at 35 per US dollar in parallel markets. Supermarket chains report severe shortages of basic goods, with cooking oil and chicken becoming increasingly difficult to find. The government signs agreements with Turkish and Iranian companies to boost food imports amid the ongoing economic crisis.
Election News
The National Electoral Council sets July 28, 2024 as the date for Venezuela's next presidential election, drawing skepticism from opposition groups about electoral fairness. International observers from the European Union confirm they will monitor the process, while the US maintains sanctions against several election officials. Polls show declining support for the ruling PSUV party amid economic hardships.
Political News
President Nicolás Maduro reshuffles his cabinet, replacing six ministers including the influential economy vice president. The move comes as internal divisions grow within the ruling party over economic policy. The National Assembly approves a controversial "anti-fascism" law that critics say will be used to suppress dissent ahead of elections.
Employment News
Informal employment reaches record levels in Caracas, with nearly 65% of workers now engaged in street vending or unregistered businesses. State oil company PDVSA announces 3,000 new engineering positions as production slowly recovers. Thousands of professionals continue leaving the country weekly, with Colombia and Chile being top destinations for Venezuelan migrants.
Markets
Prices for basic goods in Caracas markets rose 12% this week alone, with a monthly food basket now costing six times the minimum wage. The parallel dollar rate shows extreme volatility, swinging between 30 and 38 bolivars per dollar. Gold purchases surge among middle-class residents seeking to preserve savings from hyperinflation.
Forecast Forecast
Caracas expects typical Forecast with morning temperatures of 22°C rising to 30°C in the afternoon. Isolated afternoon thunderstorms are predicted for Wednesday and Friday, offering little relief to water shortages. Humidity will remain high throughout the week, averaging 75-80%.
Entertainment News
Venezuelan star Nacho announces a rare hometown concert at the Poliedro arena in June, with tickets selling out within hours. The government relaunches its "Cultural Caracas" program with free theater performances in public plazas. A new film about Simón Bolívar's early years begins production with backing from state television.
Upcoming Events
The annual San Juan Bautista celebrations will proceed with modified parades in June due to security concerns. Caracas prepares to host the South American Under-20 Volleyball Championship next month at the Poliedro town complex. The Teresa Carreño Cultural Complex announces a special concert series featuring Venezuela's youth orchestras throughout June and July.
|