GENEVA, (TDI): The United Nations on Thursday expressed concern over reports of arbitrary detentions and intimidation targeting opponents of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro ahead of his controversial inauguration for a third term.
UN human rights chief Volker Turk said he was “deeply concerned” about the situation, emphasizing the urgency of easing tensions.
“Now is the time to work to reduce the risk of more violence. Dialogue is paramount,” Turk stated in a message on X (formerly Twitter).
Ahead of planned mass protests on Thursday aimed at opposing Maduro’s Friday inauguration, Turk reaffirmed the right to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, and holding opinions without interference.
Opposition Mobilizes
In response to the contested July election, opposition leaders have vowed to emerge from hiding and exile to lead demonstrations.
The opposition has called on “millions” of Venezuelans to rally behind Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, their exiled presidential candidate, who has been recognized as the legitimate winner by the United States and several Latin American countries.
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Maria Corina Machado, an opposition leader who has been in hiding since the election, pledged to join the protests.
Fresh Arrests Reported
Opposition parties and NGOs have reported a new wave of arrests. Those detained include Enrique Marquez, a press freedom activist and former political candidate, and Carlos Correa, director of the Espacio Público press freedom NGO.
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Espacio Público reported that Correa was detained in central Caracas by “hooded men presumed to be officials.” Turk also highlighted the arrests of opposition members and their family members.
Violence and Detentions After Disputed Election
Following Maduro’s declaration of victory in the July election, over 2,400 people were detained, with 28 killed and around 200 injured during protests and riots.
The situation remains tense as opposition leaders and supporters prepare for large-scale protests against Maduro’s inauguration.
