The re-election of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela in July has led to a government crackdown, resulting in 25 deaths and 2,400 arrests, according to a United Nations fact-finding mission. The response by the authorities has created a significant human rights crisis in the country, the report stated. Many of those arrested were accused of terrorism and incitement to hatred, with violations of due process reaching unprecedented levels.
Opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez, who claims to have won the election, has sought political asylum in Spain after a warrant was issued for his arrest. The US has imposed sanctions on Venezuelan officials for their role in certifying Maduro’s victory. Maduro’s government has blamed the opposition for the deaths during the protests, calling the demonstrators “extremists” and “fascists.”
Forced disappearances and reports of cruel treatment and torture have been on the rise in Venezuela since 2019, the fact-finding mission noted. The government in Caracas has refused to cooperate with the mission. The crackdown following Maduro’s re-election marks a significant deterioration in the rule of law in the country.
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