By Sharon N Simon
The Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in Antigua and Barbuda held a commemorative function on the evening of February 4th, featuring a documentary screening and remarks from diplomatic officials.
The event took place on the 34th anniversary of the 1992 military uprising led by Hugo Chávez. Embassy officials said the date was chosen for its historical significance to the Bolivarian movement.
The evening centered on “Nicolás: The Origin”, a documentary examining the political career of President Nicolás Maduro. The film chronicles Maduro’s early involvement in politics during Venezuela’s Acción Democrática era under presidents Carlos Andrés Pérez and Jaime Lusinchi, and includes archival footage from the 1992 insurrection, including scenes of military tanks at Miraflores Palace.
Embassy officials announced that a second installment of the documentary would be screened at a future date.
The function drew diplomats, community leaders, and supporters. Embassy representatives stated the event’s purpose was to call for the return of President Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores, describing their absence as linked to an incident one month prior on January 4th, 2026.
Speakers emphasized themes of unity, peace, and what they termed “governability,” arguing that the president’s return is necessary for economic stabilization.
Sergio Martinez, the Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Antigua and Barbuda, attended the function and gave an interview. Martinez described recent events involving President Maduro as a “kidnapping” and “military aggression”, calling it a violation of international law.
“Cuba and Venezuela will always be sister nations,” Martinez said. “We will continue our solidarity with the struggle of the Venezuelan people in the fight for the return of their constitutional president.”
The event concluded with refreshments and informal discussion among attendees. Embassy officials thanked the Antiguan community for their support during the past month.