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 “the fulfillment of 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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**Interview with María Alejandra Díaz – Venezuelan Lawyer**
**Interviewer:** Good morning, María Alejandra. Thank you for joining us today. Let’s discuss the recent suspension of your legal practice by the Supreme Court of Justice. Could you explain the context of this decision?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Good morning, and thank you for having me. The sanction imposed on me was a direct consequence of my involvement in an appeal where several political organizations sought evidence regarding the controversial re-election of Nicolás Maduro on July 28. This case has significant implications, and my participation in it has led the authorities to view my actions as a threat.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that this sanction feels like a punishment. Can you elaborate on how this affects your professional and personal life?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Absolutely. The prohibition to practice law essentially eliminates my ability to earn a living. For many lawyers here in Venezuela, including myself, our profession is our sole source of income. This measure not only deprives us of our right to work but does so without due process, which is deeply concerning. It feels like a broader attack on human rights and the rule of law in our country.
**Interviewer:** How do you think this decision impacts the legal profession in Venezuela overall?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** This decision sends a chilling message to other legal professionals. It suggests that speaking out against the government or participating in politically sensitive cases can lead to severe repercussions. This could deter many lawyers from taking on cases that challenge the status quo, ultimately undermining the independence of the judiciary and the legal system itself.
**Interviewer:** What steps are you and your supporters taking in response to this situation?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** We are organizing acts of redress and seeking solidarity from various dissident movements. Our aim is to raise awareness about the injustices happening in our legal system and mobilize public opinion. We also hope to gather enough support to challenge this sanction through legal and political avenues, asserting our rights and the rights of all Venezuelans.
**Interviewer:** It’s clear that the legal environment in Venezuela is quite precarious. What message would you like to convey to those following your story?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** I would like to urge everyone to remain vigilant and supportive of the fight for justice and human rights in Venezuela. We cannot allow fear to dictate our actions. Every lawyer, every citizen deserves the right to advocate for justice, and it’s crucial to stand together against these oppressive measures.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, María Alejandra. We appreciate your courage and wish you the best in your efforts.
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Thank you for shedding light on these important issues. It’s vital that we continue to speak out.
