Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, and the Dominican Republic rejected Nicolás Maduro’s inauguration, deeming it illegitimate due to alleged electoral fraud. The opposition claims they won the presidential elections. The ADD emphasizes their commitment to foster democratic transition in Venezuela amidst widespread human rights abuses and arrests of political dissenters.
On January 10, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, and the Dominican Republic publicly denounced the inauguration of President Nicolás Maduro for a third term in Venezuela. The four nations, part of the Alliance for Development in Democracy (ADD), emphasized that the inauguration was the result of “electoral fraud imposed through state terror against the Venezuelan people.” Since assuming the presidency in 2013, Maduro’s legitimacy has faced criticism from various international bodies and Latin American states.
The opposition leader, Edmundo González Urrutia, who claims to have won the disputed elections, labeled the inauguration a “coup d’état”. He further asserted that Maduro “crowns himself dictator” in a video from exile. The ADD contends that there is substantial evidence of a peaceful and overwhelming vote in favor of González Urrutia.
Although the Venezuelan electoral authority announced that Maduro won with 52% of the votes, the lack of a detailed vote count has raised suspicions. Opposition claims indicate that González Urrutia received 70% of the electorate’s support. Continuing their commitment to reform, the ADD stated their intention to collaborate with the international community to foster a democratic transition in Venezuela.
Additionally, human rights concerns persist, as Alfredo Romero, president of the NGO Foro Penal, indicated that his organization has documented 49 politically motivated arrests this year alone. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed concerns regarding the ongoing situation, advocating for the release of individuals detained without cause.
The political climate in Venezuela has been contentious since Nicolás Maduro rose to power. Critics, including many nations and organizations, contest the legitimacy of the electoral processes that have led to his continued presidency. The recent elections have been marred by allegations of fraud and human rights violations, which have prompted regional responses and calls for a return to democratic governance. The ADD has been vocal in its opposition to Maduro, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding human rights and democratic principles in Venezuela.
In summary, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, and the Dominican Republic articulated their refusal to acknowledge Nicolás Maduro’s recent inauguration, citing fraudulent elections and human rights abuses. The opposition maintains that Edmundo González Urrutia legitimately won the electoral contest, a claim unsupported by current vote counts. The ADD remains dedicated to pursuing a democratic pathway for Venezuela, confronting the ongoing oppression faced by its citizens and advocating for justice.
Original Source: ticotimes.net
