Venezuela: Alarm over violence and electoral violations ahead of Sunday's vote
Transparency International is deeply concerned about the presidential elections in Venezuela this Sunday, 28 July, following President Maduro’s recent statements suggesting a “bloodbath” or “civil war” if the opposition wins.
Transparency International Venezuela, citizens and civil society organisations report a troubling pre-campaign and campaign period marred by violence and threats of violence against the opposition, abuse of state resources for electoral gain and disinformation campaigns. Attacks come in a form of detentions, forced disappearances, threats, physical assaults, closure of businesses, fines and interventions against political parties, disqualification of candidates, and obstruction of free movement on public roads. Any such actions severely undermine Venezuelans’ voting rights and contravene the Barbados Agreement, which aims to facilitate dialogue between the Venezuelan government and the opposition, and to promote free and fair elections.
Identified perpetrators include the National Guard, state defence and security forces, SENIAT (tax authority), and armed civilian groups. The government has reportedly used these groups to incite violent actions against anyone perceived as seeking to “destabilise” Venezuela. Attacks have primarily targeted opposition campaign headquarters, focusing on Edmundo González, the presidential candidate advocating for a peaceful democratic transition and María Corina Machado, a prominent leader known for her strong stance against the government who has been barred from running.
Ahead of this crucial election, the Venezuelan government must:
- Guarantee the right of Venezuelan citizens to vote in an atmosphere of peace and security.
- Ensure the integrity of ballot counting, including providing simultaneous access to the results to all party representatives.
- Make the results available and public as soon as possible.
- Cease the use of any state resources or powers to favour the ruling party.
- Put an end to violence or threats of violence against any voters, activists or candidates.
François Valerian, Chair of Transparency International, said:
“Venezuelan citizens have the right to freely choose a president in a peaceful democratic election and their decision must be respected. We call on the international community to closely monitor, document and immediately condemn any breaches of human rights and electoral violations in the upcoming Venezuelan vote.”
Transparency International remains committed to promoting electoral integrity worldwide. We will continue to closely monitor the situation in Venezuela and advocate for the rights of all citizens to participate in free and fair elections.
