UN Opens Investigation on Venezuela’s Election Records , Orders Conservation
The UN probe has the potential to result in a significant international decision that could confirm Nicolás Maduro is not the legitimately elected president, as stated in the complaint.
A Washington-based legal group reported that the United Nations human rights watchdog has initiated an investigation into alleged electoral fraud in Venezuela’s contentious July presidential election.
The UN Human Rights Committee (HRC) has instructed Venezuela to preserve tally sheets and other electoral materials from the presidential election during the ongoing investigation, according to IHR Legal, an international legal group focused on human rights.
Following reports from members of IHR Legal in October about significant electoral fraud in the July election results that led to Nicolás Maduro securing a third term, despite evidence indicating a loss to opposition candidate Edmundo González, the probe was launched.
They emphasized that this case is a crucial step towards reinstating democracy and human rights in Venezuela, potentially resulting in a decision that refutes Maduro’s reelection.
“We anticipate that the ongoing UN investigation will likely lead to a momentous and historic international decision affirming that Nicolas Maduro is not the legitimate president of Venezuela,” they asserted.
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The complainants alleged that Venezuelan authorities violated human rights by not releasing tally sheets from the election and obstructing Venezuelans abroad from voting. They also claimed that the Supreme Court hindered access to justice by impeding challenges to the election results.
Despite the Venezuelan Electoral Council, closely allied with Maduro, declaring his victory with 52 percent of the vote, an opposition investigation revealed that González received twice as many votes as Maduro.
Following an arrest warrant issued by Venezuelan authorities on charges of conspiracy and other crimes, González sought refuge in Spain. Both the United States and Spain have acknowledged him as the rightful winner.
Describing intense coercion, blackmail, and pressure, González recounted, “In other words, either I signed or I would face consequences.” He departed the country on September 8 after signing the letter.
Recently, Venezuelan authorities passed a law banning supporters of international sanctions from running for office and allowing their prosecution in absentia. Those convicted under this law could potentially face up to 25 years in prison.
Chris Summers contributed to this report.
