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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How does María Alejandra Díaz’s experience reflect the challenges faced by lawyers advocating for justice in countries with undermined legal systems?
**Interview with María Alejandra Díaz: Venezuelan Lawyer and Advocate for Justice**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, María Alejandra. Let’s start with the recent sanction imposed by the Supreme Court of Justice. Can you explain the nature of this punishment against you?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Thank you for having me. The sanction issued against me is a prohibition from practicing my profession as a lawyer. This measure is not just a personal attack; I believe it serves as a broader warning to anyone in the legal field who dares to challenge the current regime, specifically regarding the legitimacy of Nicolás Maduro’s re-election in the presidential elections held on July 28.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that this sanction was a punishment for attending an appeal related to the election. Could you elaborate on the context of that appeal?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Certainly. The appeal was launched by several political organizations that were demanding transparent evidence regarding the election results, which many have labeled as controversial. By attending this appeal, I aligned myself with a movement that seeks accountability and justice—values that are currently under threat in Venezuela.
**Interviewer:** You stated that this decision is made ”without due process.” Can you explain what you mean by that?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** In Venezuela, the legal framework is being systematically undermined. The decision to sanction me did not follow the principles of fairness or transparency. There was no proper legal discourse or opportunity for defense—just a unilateral decision that stripped me of my right to work, which is essential for my survival and that of my family.
**Interviewer:** How do you feel this sanction affects not just you, but the legal profession in Venezuela as a whole?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** This is a concerning trend. The sanction against me sends a chilling message to other lawyers and legal professionals: if you challenge the government or advocate for justice, you risk losing your livelihood. It’s a tactic intended to silence dissent and discourage lawyers from defending the rights of citizens. Our work is crucial, especially in a context where the rule of law is being eroded.
**Interviewer:** What support have you received from your community and fellow lawyers since this sanction?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** There has been a wave of support from dissident movements and my fellow legal professionals. Many have rallied to denounce the injustices happening in our country. While the regime’s actions aim to isolate and intimidate us, the solidarity shown is a testament to our collective resolve to fight for due process and the rule of law in Venezuela.
**Interviewer:** What do you hope to achieve moving forward, both personally and for the legal field in your country?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Personally, I hope to restore my ability to practise law and continue advocating for the rights of my fellow citizens. More broadly, I seek to inspire others to stand firm against oppression, to remind everyone that we must fight for our rights and that justice is worth defending, even in the face of adversity.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, María Alejandra, for sharing your insights with us. Your courage is inspiring, and we wish you the best in your fight for justice.
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Thank you for covering this important issue. It’s crucial that we continue to speak out and raise awareness about the situation in Venezuela.
