In a bizarre move, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has announced that Christmas will begin on October 1, two months earlier than usual. This declaration comes amidst a government crackdown on political dissent, with thousands of Venezuelans facing arrest and imprisonment.

Maduro’s decree, made during his weekly television show, was met with applause from his audience. However, the move has been criticized by the Venezuelan Episcopal Conference, which stated that Christmas should not be used for political or propaganda purposes.

The announcement comes after a contentious presidential election in July, which saw Maduro claim a third term despite widespread skepticism and opposition. The opposition coalition has published vote tally sheets indicating that Maduro lost the presidency by a significant margin.

The government’s crackdown on dissent has resulted in over 2,400 arrests, with many more fleeing the country or hiding in fear of intimidation. Human Rights Watch has documented 11 killings in the context of post-electoral violence and protests.

Maduro’s decision to extend the Christmas season is not unprecedented, but it is the earliest declaration of its kind. Last year, he ordered Christmas to start on November 1, and in 2021, he decreed that Christmas would begin on October 4 as a tactic to boost the economy.

The move has been seen as a distraction from the country’s political turmoil and a attempt to boost Maduro’s popularity. However, critics argue that it is a desperate attempt to divert attention from the government’s repression and human rights abuses.