Peruvian Congress condemns human rights violations in Venezuela and supports the opposition.

The full Congress of the Republic took a significant step by approving two motions that express its condemnation of the political and social situation in Venezuela, as well as the human rights violations perpetrated by Nicolás Maduro's government. This decision was supported by 63 votes in favor, while 25 legislators voted against it and 13 chose to abstain. The situation in the neighboring country has generated international concern, especially following the recent elections, which have been the subject of controversy and allegations of irregularities. The motions were proposed in a context where the Venezuelan opposition has questioned the legitimacy of the electoral process that has allowed Nicolás Maduro to proclaim himself president for a second time. Allegations suggest that the true winner of the elections is Edmundo González, who has been supported by various sectors of Venezuelan society. In light of this scenario, the Peruvian Congress decided to express its support for the Venezuelan people and condemn the government's actions, which are perceived as an attack on democracy and fundamental rights. Motion No. 12477, presented by legislators from Fuerza Popular, emphasizes the importance of protecting the democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people and defending their institutions. This support translates into a call for the electoral authorities and the Armed Forces of Venezuela to respect the right to universal, direct, and secret suffrage. The motion also demands compliance with the electoral results, which must legitimately reflect the popular will. The other motion, number 12613, was presented by a diverse group of legislators who also condemn the systematic violations of human rights in Venezuela. This motion highlights the persecution, repression, and arbitrary violence that have erupted in the country, as well as the use of irregular groups to intimidate the opposition. This situation has led to profound questioning of Maduro's government's practices, as well as the abuse of authority by state forces in the context of protests over the recent electoral process. Alejandro Cabero, a congressman from Avanza País, argued that it is vital for the Venezuelan government to present the records that support its alleged electoral victory. This call for transparency is added to the demand for accountability, which, according to Cabero, is essential to restore trust in the democratic process. In contrast, other legislators, such as Guido Bellido from Podemos Perú, warned about the need to respect the sovereignty of countries and the results of their elections, an aspect that has sparked intense debate in Congress. Bellido's stance was challenged by other members of Parliament, who reminded him that the lack of transparency in the results of the elections in Venezuela cannot be overlooked. German Tacuri, from the Magisterial Bloc, emphasized that Venezuela must resolve its internal problems without external interference, although he suggested that this process must include respect for human rights and democracy. Criticism of the stance of some legislators also emerged from the socialist bloc, represented by Jaime Quito, who questioned the legitimacy of the Peruvian Congress to issue judgments about democracy in another country when there are internal problems that have not yet been addressed, such as the deaths during protests in Peru. This comment highlights the complex intersection between internal and external politics, as well as the need for coherence in the democratic discourse. Adriana Tudela, also from Avanza País, emphasized that sovereignty without freedom is an illusion and advocated for the urgent need for a change of leadership in Venezuela. Her words resonated strongly in the context of the recent electoral crisis, where many citizens have lost faith in Maduro's government's ability to ensure a democratic and peaceful future. The approval of these motions by the Peruvian Congress not only reflects a clear political stance regarding the situation in Venezuela but also raises questions about Peru's role in defending human rights in the region. In a context where democracies are threatened and fundamental rights are systematically violated, the Congress's support for the Venezuelan people could be a step towards greater international responsibility in defending democracy in Latin America.