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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What are the long-term implications of government sanctions on legal professionals like María Alejandra Díaz in Venezuela?
**Interview with María Alejandra Díaz: Impact of Supreme Court Sanction on Legal Practice in Venezuela**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, María Alejandra Díaz. You’ve recently been sanctioned by Venezuela’s Supreme Court of Justice, which has prohibited you from practicing law. Can you explain the circumstances surrounding this sanction?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Thank you for having me. The Supreme Court’s decision is indeed a significant blow. This sanction arises from my participation in an appeal process initiated by various political organizations seeking evidence regarding the controversial re-election of Nicolás Maduro during the July 28 presidential elections. This involvement has been interpreted by the court as a form of dissent, and I believe it is a direct punishment for standing up for transparency and justice in our electoral processes.
**Interviewer:** You described this sanction as “punishment” and mentioned a lack of due process. Can you elaborate on that?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Absolutely. The lack of due process is critical here. I was neither formally charged with any specific wrongdoing nor given a fair opportunity to defend myself or present evidence. This sanctions effectively silence legal professionals who are willing to challenge the government or support their clients’ rights against unfair practices. By prohibiting me from practicing law, they are undermining not only my career but also the broader principle of the rule of law in Venezuela.
**Interviewer:** How has this affected your ability to support yourself and your family?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** This prohibition eliminates my primary source of income; I have no other means of livelihood. For many in my situation, practicing law is not just a job but a crucial source of financial stability. When you sanction someone in this manner, you are not just affecting their professional life, but also their entire way of life.
**Interviewer:** What has been the response from other legal professionals and political organizations following your sanction?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** There has been a notable outpouring of support from fellow lawyers and civil society organizations. Many understand that this is not just a personal attack but a broader strategy to intimidate anyone who dares to speak out against the government. In fact, several dissident movements organized an event to redress my situation, which reflects our shared commitment to fight against these injustices.
**Interviewer:** Given the current political climate in Venezuela, what do you see as the way forward for yourself and others in your situation?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging. However, I remain hopeful. We must continue to advocate for fair legal practices and defend our rights. This situation has only strengthened my resolve to fight for justice, not just for myself, but for all Venezuelans who yearn for a democratic society ruled by law. It is crucial that we do not let fear silence us.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, María Alejandra, for sharing your experiences and insights with us today. We will be following your story closely as events unfold.
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Thank you. It’s important that we keep the conversation going.
This interview highlights the implications of government sanctions on legal professionals in Venezuela and reflects broader issues related to political oppression and the safeguarding of civil rights within the country.