UN Criticizes Venezuela's Election Handling as Maduro Claims Victory Amid CNE Issues and Climate of Fear

Aug 15, 2024, 01:31 PM

The United Nations has criticized the Venezuelan government for its handling of the recent presidential elections, highlighting issues such as arbitrary detentions, disproportionate use of force, a climate of fear, and a lack of transparency. The UN panel of electoral experts reported that the National Electoral Council (CNE) did not follow national legal and regulatory provisions, leading to missed deadlines and unverified election results. The report, which was made public, has been rejected by Venezuela's government, which argues it violates terms agreed with the CNE. More than two weeks after President Nicolas Maduro claimed victory, international reactions have been mixed. The US and Brazil are calling for new elections, while others, such as Mexico, caution against external interference. The opposition in Venezuela continues to push for recognition of what they claim is their victory in the election, supported by a Carter Center report stating the elections failed to meet democratic standards.