Jurist UN rights chief calls for investigation into violence in Venezuela protests

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UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet called Friday for investigations into violence including deaths during protests in Venezuela.

On Wednesday, leader of the opposition and National Assembly head, Juan Guaido, declared himself acting president of Venezuela. On the same day, US President Donald Trump released a statement recognizing Guaido as Interim President of Venezuela over the current president Nicolas Maduro. Trump stated:

In its role as the only legitimate branch of government duly elected by the Venezuelan people, the National Assembly invoked the country’s constitution to declare Nicolas Maduro illegitimate, and the office of the presidency therefore vacant.

Amidst this political upheaval, pro-government forces allegedly shot 20 protestors during protests against the Maduro regime. The High Commissioner’s staff also has reported that over 350 protestors have been detained and raids on property have occurred in the area of the protests.

Bachelet called for investigation into violence surrounding the protests, saying:

Any violent incident resulting in death or injury should be subject to an independent and impartial investigation to find out whether there was excessive use of force by the authorities, or if crimes have been committed by members of armed groups, whether pro-government or otherwise.

Bachelet emphasized the need for Venezuelan authorities to respect the central right to assemble peacefully and freedom of expression while calling for due process for the individuals detained and the release of those exercising their fundamental rights. Bachelet said, “I am extremely concerned that the situation in Venezuela may rapidly spiral out of control with catastrophic consequences.”

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