BTN News: In a unified and resolute message, the leaders of Spain, Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and Portugal have demanded the prompt release of the official records from the recent presidential elections in Venezuela. The statement issued this Saturday expresses deep concern over the current state of affairs in Venezuela, following last Sunday’s election, and emphasizes the need for transparency and integrity in the electoral process.
The declaration begins by highlighting the significant worry these European leaders share about the post-election scenario in Venezuela. They urge the Venezuelan authorities to swiftly release the election records to ensure full transparency and the integrity of the election results. This move is crucial for maintaining public trust and validating the electoral process.
In their collective statement, the seven countries point out that the opposition has already collected and made public over 80 percent of the polling station records. They stress that this verification process is vital for recognizing the true will of the Venezuelan people. Ensuring the publication of these records will reinforce the authenticity and credibility of the election outcomes.
The joint declaration underscores the importance of respecting the rights of all Venezuelans, especially political leaders. It strongly condemns any detentions or threats against these individuals, emphasizing the need to uphold their rights during this critical period. The leaders assert that the rights to peaceful protest and assembly must be protected, as these are fundamental aspects of a democratic society.
Additionally, the European leaders have committed to closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela alongside their international partners. They express their support for the Venezuelan people’s call for democracy and peace, signaling their intention to continue advocating for a fair and transparent resolution to the current crisis.
The declaration is signed by notable European leaders including French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. Their unified stance highlights the significance of international solidarity in addressing the political turmoil in Venezuela.
This call for transparency and respect for democratic principles in Venezuela underscores the critical need for international vigilance and support. By demanding the release of the election records and condemning any forms of repression, these European leaders aim to ensure that the voice of the Venezuelan people is heard and respected. Their commitment to supporting democracy and peace in Venezuela reflects a broader effort to promote stability and human rights worldwide.