The U.N.’s top human rights official expressed worry about arbitrary detentions and excessive force in Venezuela following the disputed presidential election. President Nicolás Maduro’s forces have detained over 2,000 individuals for protesting against him or questioning his victory claims, despite strong evidence suggesting otherwise.
U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, raised concerns about the numerous arrests and charges under counterterrorism laws or for incitement to hatred. Türk emphasized that criminal laws should not constrain freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.
As Venezuela’s opposition prepares for a demonstration to escalate pressure on Maduro to acknowledge defeat and engage in a political transition, opposition leader María Corina Machado spoke to reporters on Tuesday about the ongoing crisis. Machado, who appointed retired diplomat Edmundo González as her representative after being barred from the election, highlighted the uncertain duration of resolving the political turmoil.
The U.N. human rights office pointed out that detainees often lack access to chosen legal representation or communication with their families. Türk urged for the immediate release of arbitrarily detained individuals and fair trial guarantees. He condemned the disproportionate force by law enforcement and attacks by government supporters on demonstrators.
Moreover, reports of violence against public officials and buildings by some protesters have surfaced, prompting Türk to stress that violence is not the solution. The International Criminal Court disclosed that they are closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela.
AP Writer Astrid Suárez in Bogota, Colombia, contributed to this report.