The former opposition presidential candidate was lauded for being a “key, unifying figure" in the once deeply divided opposition to President Nicolás Maduro’s government, said Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel committee.
“In the past year, Ms. Machado has been forced to live in hiding," Watne Frydnes said. Despite serious threats against her life, she has remained in the country, a choice that has inspired millions. When authoritarians seize power, it is crucial to recognize courageous defenders of freedom who rise and resist.”
He told the AP that the committee was able to reach Machado just before the announcement and “it came as a surprise.”
Machado's ally, Edmundo González, who lives in exile in Spain, posted a short video of himself speaking by phone with Machado.
“I am in shock,” she said, adding, “I cannot believe it.”
González celebrated Machado’s Nobel win in a post on X, calling it a “very well-deserved recognition for the long fight of a woman and of a whole people for our freedom and democracy.”
Maduro's government has routinely targeted its real or perceived opponents.
Machado, who turned 58 this week, was set to run against Maduro, but the government disqualified her. González, who had never run for office before, took her place. The lead-up to the election saw widespread repression, including disqualifications, arrests and human rights violations.
