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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What are the implications of the Venezuelan Supreme Court’s sanctions on lawyers like María Alejandra Díaz for judicial independence in Venezuela?
**Interview with María Alejandra Díaz: A Lawyer’s Stand Against the Venezuelan Supreme Court**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, María Alejandra. You’ve been vocal about the recent sanction imposed by the Venezuelan Supreme Court that prohibits you from practicing law. Can you explain the context of this decision?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. This sanction was imposed after I participated in an appeal where several political organizations were seeking evidence regarding the controversial re-election of Nicolás Maduro, which occurred on July 28. The court’s decision feels like a direct retaliation against those of us involved in advocating for transparency and accountability in our electoral processes.
**Interviewer:** You described this measure as a ”punishment.” Can you elaborate on how it affects your life and work?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** This is more than just a professional setback; it essentially eliminates my right to earn a living. As a lawyer, my work is my sole income source. The court’s action not only removes my ability to practice law, but it is also carried out without due process. It sends a chilling message to others in the legal profession about the repercussions of standing up for democratic principles and justice in Venezuela.
**Interviewer:** How has the public and other legal professionals reacted to your situation?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** There has been an outpouring of support from colleagues and civil society organizations. Many see this as part of a broader trend of silencing dissent in our country. Activist movements have organized acts of solidarity, like the one I attended recently, to raise awareness about this issue and to advocate for our rights as legal practitioners.
**Interviewer:** Looking ahead, what are your thoughts on the future of judicial independence in Venezuela?
**María Alejandra Díaz:** The situation is concerning. The judiciary appears increasingly aligned with political interests rather than upholding the law and protecting citizens’ rights. However, I remain hopeful. There are many brave individuals and organizations fighting for change. We must continue to challenge these injustices and support one another in the pursuit of a democratic and lawful society.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights, María Alejandra. Your bravery in facing such challenges is commendable.
**María Alejandra Díaz:** Thank you for shining a light on this important issue. It’s crucial that we keep the conversation going and work towards a better future for all Venezuelans.