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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**Interview with María Alejandra Díaz on the Recent Sanction by the Venezuelan Supreme Court**
*Interviewer:* María Alejandra, thank you for joining us today. You’ve recently been sanctioned by the Venezuelan Supreme Court, preventing you from practicing law. Can you tell us what led to this sanction?
*María Alejandra Díaz:* Thank you for having me. This sanction comes as a direct result of my involvement in an appeal where we sought evidence related to the controversial re-election of Nicolás Maduro in the presidential elections on July 28. Our aim was to ensure transparency and accountability in what many consider a flawed electoral process. Unfortunately, rather than supporting our efforts for justice, the government has chosen to punish dissenting voices like mine.
*Interviewer:* You described this sanction as a “punishment.” Can you elaborate on how this affects you personally and professionally?
*María Alejandra Díaz:* Absolutely. By revoking my ability to practice law, they are not only stripping me of my livelihood but also violating my right to due process. Legal practice is not just my career; it is my life’s work and primary source of income. This makes me, and many other lawyers in Venezuela, vulnerable. It is an attack on our professional autonomy, sending a clear message to those who dare to speak out against the regime.
*Interviewer:* Your case has brought attention to the broader issue of legal professionals facing similar challenges in Venezuela. What message do you hope to convey through your situation?
*María Alejandra Díaz:* I want to highlight the struggles that many lawyers face under this regime. We are seeing increased pressure on those who advocate for justice and human rights. My hope is that by raising awareness, we can rally support not only for my cause but also for the countless others who fight against injustice in Venezuela. It’s essential for us to stand united in our pursuit of a fair and just legal system.
*Interviewer:* There are many of your colleagues and supporters here in Caracas. How has their support impacted you during this difficult time?
*María Alejandra Díaz:* The support from fellow lawyers and the broader dissident movements has been incredibly uplifting. It reinforces the fact that I am not alone in this fight. Their solidarity gives us all strength to continue advocating for our rights and those of our clients, despite the risks involved.
*Interviewer:* Thank you, María Alejandra, for sharing your story with us. We wish you strength as you navigate this challenging situation.
*María Alejandra Díaz:* Thank you for highlighting this issue. It’s critical that we continue to speak out and fight for justice in Venezuela.