By AFP - Agence France Presse
July 31, 2024

Credits @FFHR.CZ
The UN's human rights chief voiced alarm Tuesday at the deadly unrest in Venezuela following this weekend's disputed presidential election, saying the country was now at a "critical juncture".
Venezuela braced for new demonstrations Tuesday, after four people died and dozens were injured when the authorities broke up protests against President Nicolas Maduro's claim of victory.
"I am extremely concerned about increasing tensions in Venezuela, with worrying reports of violence," Volker Turk said in a statement.
"Venezuela is at a critical juncture. I urge the authorities to respect the rights of all Venezuelans to assemble and protest peacefully and express their views freely and without fear."
Turk said demonstrations had been taking place in at least 17 of Venezuela's 24 states, including the capital Caracas, with hundreds of people arrested, including children.
"This troubles me deeply," he said.
"I am alarmed by reports of disproportionate use of force by law enforcement officials along with violence by armed individuals supporting the government," he continued.
"Several protesters have been injured by firearms... more allegations are still pending verification.
"Those responsible for human rights violations must be held to account."
Venezuela's elections were held amid widespread fears of fraud by the government and a campaign tainted by accusations of political intimidation.
The opposition fiercely contests the outcome of Sunday's election which authorities say was won by Maduro with 51.2 percent of votes cast compared to 44.2 percent for Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia.
Security forces had fired tear gas and rubber bullets Monday at angry protesters who claimed the election was stolen and flooded the streets.
The United Nations high commissioner for human rights said all Venezuelans had the right to participate meaningfully in the decisions that affect both their lives and the future of their country, including through credible elections.
He joined the call by UN chief Antonio Guterres for electoral disputes to be settled peacefully, with complete transparency, including the timely publication of the election results with a breakdown by polling stations.
"Electoral authorities should undertake their work independently and without interference, in order to guarantee the free expression of the will of voters and safeguard their rights," said Turk.
The United Nations, United States, European Union and several Latin American countries called for a "transparent" process after the vote, while allies including China, Russia and Cuba congratulated Maduro.
Source: barrons.com
Comments