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 led to María Alejandra Díaz receiving sanctions from the Supreme Court of Justice in Venezuela?
**Interviewer**: Today we’re joined by Venezuelan lawyer María Alejandra Díaz, who recently faced sanctions from the Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ) for her role in challenging President Nicolás Maduro’s re-election. Thank you for joining us, María.
**María Alejandra Díaz**: Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer**: You were sanctioned with a prohibition to practice law. Can you explain the circumstances surrounding this decision and your involvement in the appeal regarding the election?
**María Alejandra Díaz**: Yes, of course. The Supreme Court sanctioned me as a direct response to my participation in an appeal made by several political organizations who sought transparent evidence of Maduro’s re-election, which many consider highly controversial. Our aim was to question the legitimacy of the electoral process itself.
**Interviewer**: How do you feel about the court’s decision? You mentioned it felt like a punishment.
**María Alejandra Díaz**: Absolutely. This action feels like a punishment not only for me but for all who are striving for judicial transparency and accountability. It removes my right to work and undermines due process. As a lawyer, my profession is my livelihood, and being barred from practicing law affects my ability to support myself and my family.
**Interviewer**: In what ways do you think this sanction impacts the broader struggle for democracy in Venezuela?
**María Alejandra Díaz**: This sanction is a clear attempt to silence dissent and discourage lawyers and activists from pursuing justice. It’s part of a larger pattern of oppression against those who challenge the status quo. By targeting individuals like me, the government sends a message to others: that there are severe consequences for questioning their authority or the legitimacy of their actions.
**Interviewer**: Given your circumstances, what do you feel is your next step?
**María Alejandra Díaz**: I intend to continue advocating for justice and transparency, despite the personal risks involved. I believe it is crucial for Venezuelans to see that there are still people willing to stand up against injustice. Additionally, I am seeking legal avenues to challenge the court’s decision and restore my right to practice law.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, María, for sharing your experience and perspective. We wish you the best in your fight for justice.
**María Alejandra Díaz**: Thank you for the opportunity to speak out.