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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In what ways do you believe international support can help individuals like you who are facing legal sanctions in Venezuela?
**Interview with María Alejandra Díaz: Facing Sanctions and Defending Justice in Venezuela**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, María Alejandra. You have recently been sanctioned by Venezuela’s Supreme Court of Justice, which has prohibited you from practicing law. Can you explain what led to this decision?
**María Alejandra Díaz**: Thank you for having me. The restriction on my ability to practice law is a clear punishment for my involvement in an appeal where we sought evidence related to the controversial re-election of Nicolás Maduro in the elections held on July 28. It seems that standing up for transparency and justice has put my career at risk.
**Interviewer**: You described this measure as a “punishment.” Can you elaborate on why you feel this way?
**María Alejandra Díaz**: Absolutely. This sanction not only restricts my professional rights but also does so without due process. It’s an attempt to silence dissent and restrict the voices of those who seek accountability in our electoral processes. They are essentially punishing us by taking away our means of living. For many of us, practicing law is not just a profession, it’s our only source of income.
**Interviewer**: This must be incredibly challenging. How have your colleagues and the broader community responded to your situation?
**María Alejandra Díaz**: There has been significant support from various dissident movements and the legal community. They organized an act of redress in my favor, which shows that many people are concerned about the rule of law in Venezuela. However, the fear of repercussions has made it difficult for others to speak out openly.
**Interviewer**: Given the current political climate in Venezuela, what do you believe is the next step for individuals who are facing similar challenges?
**María Alejandra Díaz**: I think it’s crucial for us to continue advocating for our rights and to hold the government accountable. We must rely on international support and raise awareness about the injustices we face. The situation is dire, but as long as there are voices willing to stand up, there is hope for change.
**Interviewer**: Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us, María Alejandra. Your bravery in standing up against these sanctions is commendable, and we hope for a resolution that allows for justice and due process in Venezuela.
**María Alejandra Díaz**: Thank you for the opportunity to speak about this important issue. I truly believe that through persistence and solidarity, we can achieve meaningful change.