One month before the controversial presidential elections in Venezuelain an extraordinary session of the Organization of American States (OAS) held yesterday, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) denounced the “intensification of violent repression, arbitrary detentions and political persecution in Venezuela.” Despite the seriousness of the accusations, the countries mediating in the crisis —Brazil, Colombia y Mexico— remained silent during the session.
Roberta Clarke, President of the IACHR, He described a grim picture reminiscent of the protests of 2014 and 2017, with a persistent pattern of human rights violations. Clarke“the arbitrary use of force by the State” resulted in the death of at least 23 people, including ten who are directly attributed to the forces of the State, including military and police. In addition, the responsibility of the colectivos, pro-Chavez armed groups “that act with the consent of the government” was pointed out.
The commission documented more than 1,600 arrests since late July, with a particular focus on election volunteers and people perceived as opponents of the regime, including journalists, human rights defenders and university students. Clarke also warned of the Illegal cancellation of passports and media censorship, describing these actions as part of a government strategy of “divide and conquer” to sow fear and intimidation.
At the same time, the Venezuelan opposition continues to fight. Yesterday, hundreds of opposition protesters took to the streets of Caracas, led by María Corina Machado. “This protest is unstoppable,” Machado said, insisting that respect for the popular will expressed at the polls “is non-negotiable.”
Chavismo responded by mobilizing its base, culminating in a speech by Maduro at the Miraflores palace, where he celebrated his re-election amid mounting accusations of electoral manipulation. Despite international pressure and constant demonstrations, The regime showed little interest in giving ground.
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2024-09-03 03:06:36