Caracas, Nov 13 (EFE).- Venezuelan lawyer María Alejandra Díaz, whom the Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ) sanctioned with a prohibition to practice his professionsaid this Wednesday that the measure is a “punishment” for having attended an appeal in which several political organizations requested evidence of the controversial re-election of Nicolás Maduro in the presidential elections on July 28.
«They punish us by eliminating our right to work, but, also, without due process. “It is our way of life, we have no other income other than professional practice.”said the jurist in an act of redress in her favor, organized by dissident movements of the ruling Chavismo, among them the Communist Party of Venezuela (PCV).
He stressed that This sanction is something “unprecedented”which falls on her after 35 years of practicing law and after two years in which she had a more critical role against the Maduro Government, which she defended until the last five years.
«We believe that “It is a bill for our political positions.”insisted Díaz, who says he feels in a “legal limbo”, because – he explains – the suspension has an “indefinite” duration, at least until the TSJ clarifies its decision to know if he should appeal to the court or go to the Bar Association.
In this sense, he said that he also asked the court for explanations about the way in which he must pay the imposed fine of 100 euros ($105.64).
Díaz asked the lawyers’ union to rule on this caseBecause – he warns – all jurists who demand “compliance with a constitutional right” are being put at risk if “the Government feels that they are getting in the way.”
«The one that is threatened is the lawyers’ union. “That is the most serious thing about this entire sentence and that is why we believe that we must act,” he said.
Last week, the TSJ rejected the appeal assisted by Díaz and fined and sanctioned her, “given the serious allegations” in the constitutional protection introduced, which question and disrespect the power held by the Supreme Court and which, in addition, “intend generate anxiety and shock in the population.
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What are the implications of the Supreme Court of Justice’s sanctions on lawyers like María Alejandra Díaz in Venezuela?
**Interview with María Alejandra Díaz, Venezuelan Lawyer**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, María Alejandra. You recently faced a sanction from the Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ) that prohibits you from practicing law. Can you explain the circumstances surrounding this decision?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Thank you for having me. Yes, the measure was implemented after I participated in an appeal where we sought evidence regarding the legitimacy of Nicolás Maduro’s re-election in the controversial elections held on July 28. I believe this sanction is a political punishment aimed at silencing dissent and intimidating those of us who challenge the government’s actions.
**Interviewer:** That’s quite serious. You mentioned that this decision eliminates your right to work. Can you elaborate on what this means for you and other lawyers in similar positions?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Absolutely. By barring me from practicing my profession, they are not only punishing me but effectively depriving me of my livelihood. For many lawyers in Venezuela, our profession is our only source of income. This action is also performed without due process; it’s a clear violation of our rights as professionals and as citizens.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like there’s a broader context to this beyond just your case. How do you see the role of the TSJ in Venezuela’s current political climate?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** The TSJ’s role has become more about serving the interests of the Nicolás Maduro regime than upholding justice. There are significant concerns about the independence of the judiciary in Venezuela, as many believe the TSJ has lost its legitimacy due to political interference. This situation contributes to a culture of fear among those who might oppose the government [[1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supreme_Tribunal_of_Justice_(Venezuela))].
**Interviewer:** Given these challenges, what do you hope will come from the act of redress organized by dissident movements in your favor?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** I hope that this act will raise awareness about the injustices faced by legal professionals in Venezuela and inspire others to stand against these oppressive measures. It’s vital for us to unite and continue fighting for our rights and for a fair judicial system. Our efforts may encourage more individuals to challenge the status quo, despite the risks involved.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, María Alejandra, for sharing your insights and experiences. We wish you the best in your fight for justice.
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak about these important issues.
