The EU Observer Mission in Venezuela submitted its report: “We note the lack of judicial independence and non-compliance with the rule of law.”

Isabel Santos, The head of the EU’s monitoring mission in Venezuela, gave his initial report on the regional elections on Tuesday, “The judiciary lacks independence and does not follow the rule of law”.

The Portuguese diplomat, who will return to the country in late January or early February – according to him – to submit the full report. “Political campaigning was marked by a greater use of state resources”.

He said, “There is no ban on irregularities in the National Electoral Council (CNE)“And the audience of that block”Saw the establishment of checkpoints in 23 states and capital districts, despite CNE’s apparent ban”.

Then he said: “We apologize for the murder of a voter standing in line to vote in Julia. An attack that injured others ”; At the same time it pointed out “Attacks on an election observer (he made it clear he was not from the EU) and two human rights defenders. There is no place for such acts in democratic practice”, He insisted.

Prior to the review, Santos said, “Have the feeling of living in a historical moment. 15 years ago the EU did not come to Venezuela with a surveillance mission. This work is possible at the invitation of CNE, ”he said.

He continued: “In the last days, There was a lot of speculation About the nature of our work. It is independent, impartial and impartial. Monitoring tasks They are not an interfering tool In the life of nations ”, he clarified; When he highlighted it “Today’s report is just the beginning. There are important stages, including the study of potential challenges that the EU will continue to look at and the completion of resolutions.”, He explained.

For its part, Jordi Canas, The European Parliament’s watchdog, thanked the Venezuelan people for welcoming the mission. “We have a commitment to all Venezuelan citizens and democracy”, He declared.

“During our presence, we were able to verify the progress of the electoral process as a result of political dialogue. Very important Opposition decided to participate In electoral law. Without their participation, we would not be here because there would be nothing to notice”He continued.

He later denounced it. “There are not enough democratic conditions“And”Deterioration of the rule of law in the context of serious human rights violations”. In addition, he noted “An independent judiciary is needed”.

“Progress can only be made through political dialogue between the Venezuelan people. That is the path we want to take. “

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