Venezuela’s Spiral into Authoritarianism: Arbitrary Detentions as Government’s Repressive Weapon

Political Oppression and Arbitrary Detentions Plague Venezuela

In a new report released by Amnesty International, it is revealed that the government of President Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela continues to carry out politically motivated arbitrary detentions. The report documents the cases of nine individuals who were detained under this policy and calls for their immediate and unconditional release.

A Tool of Repression

According to the report, the victims of these arbitrary detentions include teachers, trade unionists, human rights defenders, journalists, activists, and even individuals who have no political affiliations at all. This demonstrates the vulnerability of the general population to falling victim to arbitrary detention and other serious human rights violations in Venezuela.

The report highlights the case of Emirlendris Benítez, a 42-year-old mother, sister, and tradeswoman who has been arbitrarily detained since August 5, 2018. She was falsely linked to acts of violence against President Maduro simply because she shared a car journey with individuals allegedly involved in those acts. Despite being pregnant, Emirlendris was tortured and subjected to a forced termination of her pregnancy. As a result of the beatings she endured, she is now wheelchair-bound and suffers from other serious health issues. Emirlendris is currently serving an unjust 30-year prison sentence in a facility located 30 kilometers away from her family.

A Widespread Pattern

This report, along with previous investigations, reveals a pattern of repeated actions carried out by different state security forces at different times and places. These arbitrary detentions are often accompanied by other grave human rights violations such as torture, enforced disappearances, denial of due process, and inhumane detention conditions.

For instance, the case of Guillermo Zárraga, a 59-year-old engineer and former trade unionist, demonstrates the arbitrary nature of these detentions. He was arrested based on a photograph of him with Juan Guaidó, the leader of the opposition. The photograph was used as evidence of Zárraga’s alleged intention to support a sabotage plan supposedly promoted by a US intelligence agent. Despite the unfounded accusation, Guillermo remains arbitrarily detained and his health is rapidly deteriorating.

International Scrutiny and the Path to Justice

The report emphasizes the need for international pressure on the Venezuelan authorities to address these human rights violations. The International Criminal Court, Argentine courts under the principle of universal jurisdiction, and the United Nations are all conducting investigations and monitoring the situation in Venezuela.

The report concludes by highlighting the significant number of politically motivated detentions in Venezuela. Civil society organizations estimate that around 300 individuals are currently detained for political reasons, with more than 15,700 politically motivated arbitrary detentions recorded since 2014.

The Urgent Call for Action

These arbitrary detentions and human rights abuses in Venezuela demand immediate action from the international community. Governments, human rights organizations, and individuals who believe in the inherent dignity and rights of all individuals must put pressure on the Venezuelan authorities to release those unjustly detained and hold accountable those responsible for these violations.

It is crucial that the international community provides support to civil society organizations in Venezuela who are working tirelessly to document and expose these human rights abuses. Advocacy for the release of arbitrarily detained individuals should be accompanied by efforts to provide humanitarian aid to those affected by the ongoing crisis.

The government of Venezuela must be reminded that it has an obligation to respect and protect the rights of its citizens, regardless of their political affiliations. Arbitrary detentions can never be justified as a tool of repression and social control. Real progress towards a just and inclusive society can only be achieved when fundamental human rights are upheld and protected.

The plight of Emirlendris Benítez, María Auxiliadora Delgado, Juan Carlos Marrufo, Guillermo Zárraga, and the other victims of politically motivated arbitrary detentions must not be forgotten. Their stories should ignite a renewed commitment to human rights and justice, not only in Venezuela but around the world.

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