The US calls for an independent investigation after the death of Edwin Santos / Photo: El Impulso
The US Undersecretary of State for the Western Hemisphere, Brian Nichols, joined this Tuesday, October 29, the voices calling for justice after the death of Venezuelan opposition activist, Edwin Santos.
Through his account on the social network X, Nichols expressed his shock and sadness upon learning of the news that was made public on October 25.
In its statement, the US Embassy in Venezuela emphasized that it supports a call for a transparent investigation and an independent autopsy to clarify the circumstances surrounding the death of Santos, who was allegedly detained by security forces before his death. “We join the call for a transparent investigation and an independently performed autopsy to determine responsibility for his death,” the letter states.
The death of Edwin Santos, co-founder of the opposition party Voluntad Popular (VP), has generated a wave of indignation and protests both inside and outside Venezuela. More than 100 personalities from the political and cultural sphere have described his death as a “state crime.”
The statement by the American spokesperson highlights international attention towards the human rights situation in Venezuela. The international community is closely following the events in Venezuela, where the oppression of dissidents and the lack of justice have been recurring themes in the reports of human rights organizations.
Lara / The Impulse
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**Interview with Brian Nichols, U.S. Undersecretary of State for the Western Hemisphere**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Nichols. The death of Edwin Santos has shocked many, including yourself. Can you share why this incident has resonated so deeply?
**Brian Nichols:** Thank you for having me. Edwin Santos was a prominent figure in the fight for democracy in Venezuela. His commitment to advocating for human rights and civil liberties made him a vital part of the opposition movement. The manner of his death raises serious concerns about the treatment of activists in Venezuela, and it has galvanized calls for accountability.
**Editor:** You mentioned in your statement the need for a transparent investigation. Can you elaborate on what steps you think should be taken to ensure this?
**Brian Nichols:** Absolutely. An independent investigation is essential to uncover the truth behind Santos’s death. This means involving international observers and human rights experts to ensure that the inquiry is unbiased and thorough. Additionally, a credible autopsy should be conducted to clarify the circumstances that led to his death, particularly given his alleged detention by security forces prior to that.
**Editor:** Some might argue that international calls for investigations can sometimes be perceived as interference in a nation’s sovereignty. How do you respond to such concerns?
**Brian Nichols:** That’s a valid point. However, when a government is unable or unwilling to uphold the rights and safety of its citizens, the international community has a responsibility to intervene. We are not seeking to intervene in Venezuela’s internal affairs but to stand in solidarity with those who value democracy and human rights, as Edwin Santos did.
**Editor:** What message do you hope this will convey to the Venezuelan people and the international community?
**Brian Nichols:** My message is one of solidarity and hope. To the Venezuelan people, we want them to know that they are not alone in their struggle for justice and democracy. To the international community, we encourage vigilance in protecting human rights and holding those responsible for violations accountable. Together, we can build a world where democratic voices are heard and protected.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Mr. Nichols. It’s a complex situation, and we appreciate your commitment to advocating for justice.
**Brian Nichols:** Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we continue to advocate for those who can’t advocate for themselves.
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