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 has the recent sanction imposed on María Alejandra Díaz by the Venezuelan Supreme Court affected her career and the broader context for lawyers in Venezuela?
**Interview with María Alejandra Díaz, Venezuelan Lawyer**
**Host:** Good afternoon, and welcome to our special segment on the serious developments in Venezuela. Today, we are speaking with María Alejandra Díaz, a lawyer recently sanctioned by the Venezuelan Supreme Court of Justice, prohibiting her from practicing law. María, thank you for joining us.
**Díaz:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Let’s dive right into it. You mentioned that this sanction feels like a punishment for your involvement in an appeal related to Nicolás Maduro’s controversial re-election. Can you explain what led you to participate in that appeal?
**Díaz:** Absolutely. The appeal was initiated by various political organizations that sought to investigate the integrity of the recent elections held on July 28. Given the widespread allegations of irregularities surrounding Maduro’s re-election, it was imperative for us to demand evidence and uphold our right to transparency in the electoral process. My participation in this appeal was purely professional and aimed at advocating for democratic principles.
**Host:** You described this sanction as a way to eliminate your right to work. How has this impacted your life and career?
**Díaz:** This sanction directly affects my ability to earn a living, as most lawyers in Venezuela rely on their practice for income. It feels incredibly unjust—not just because it removes my professional rights, but because it was enacted without any due process. I cannot stress enough how critical our professional practices are to our livelihoods; it is our way of life.
**Host:** In light of these challenges, how do you see the future for lawyers and political activists in Venezuela?
**Díaz:** The future is definitely uncertain. Many of us are facing increasing pressure and persecution for simply doing our jobs or standing up for civic rights. However, I believe that perseverance is key. The Venezuelan people are resilient, and many continue to fight for justice and democracy. We must continue to raise our voices and advocate for rule of law despite the risks.
**Host:** You’ve mentioned participating in acts of redress organized by dissident movements. Can you tell us more about these efforts and how they are helping you and others like you?
**Díaz:** These acts are crucial for raising awareness and mobilizing support. They serve as a platform for people to come together, share their experiences, and push back against authoritarian measures. It is a way for us to remind the government that we will not be silenced and that we will continue to advocate for our rights as citizens and professionals.
**Host:** Thank you, María, for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. Your courage in the face of adversity is truly inspiring.
**Díaz:** Thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak about these important issues. It is crucial that we keep the international community informed about what is happening in Venezuela.
**Host:** And to our viewers, thank you for joining us in this important discussion. Stay tuned for more updates on the situation in Venezuela and other global news.
