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"Representatives of Venezuelan unions and guilds demonstrated in Caracas on Thursday to demand salary improvements and transparent elections in light of the country's economic situation. Footage shows the gathering that began at Las Mercedes square and ended at the United States embassy. During the event, the demonstrators can be seen holding signs demanding the activation of Article 91 of the Constitution, which stipulates workers' right to a dignified salary. "Today we march to the embassy to tell President Trump that we are not happy. I am not happy. I don't want a salary of 0.26 USD (0.22 EUR). That is not happiness. Happiness is a salary, as article 91 of the Constitution says, that is equal to the basic basket," said Lina Mantilla, a health sector worker. Protesters pointed out that the problem in the country is not limited to salary issues, as there are also other sectors, such as health and education, that need to be addressed by the authorities. "It's no longer about salary. Look, this went from a labour issue to a social issue. It's water, it's electricity, it's health, it's education, it's salary as a priority in labour matters, it's freedom," stressed Jose Patines, General Secretary of the Foreign Ministry's union. He also requested support to promote political changes in the country. "What we are going to ask at the United States embassy is precisely that: that the right of all Venezuelans to be free is respected. And how is that achieved? Through elections," he added. Carlos Salazar, coordinator and spokesperson for the National Union Coalition, delivered a document with the demonstrators' demands to Sam Samuels, the security officer of the US embassy. "We have a need today, at this historical moment of this country that needs a change. Venezuela is now rural. Venezuela was modern, had a future of modernisation of the world and today it is rural," the coordinator declared. "We want a Venezuela for our grandchildren, for our children and only that can be possible with elections in the country immediately, complying with the Constitution," he persisted. Last April, the Venezuelan government raised the 'minimum comprehensive income' of workers to 240 USD (204.6 EUR) per month through bonuses, without modifying the base minimum wage. The adjustment includes an economic war bonus and a food bonus."
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