G7 Condemns Maduro’s Inauguration as Venezuela’s President, Cites “Lack of Democratic Legitimacy”

Alberta: The Group of Seven (G7) countries have denounced the inauguration of Nicolas Maduro as Venezuela’s president, calling it a “lack of democratic legitimacy.” In a strongly worded statement, the G7 foreign ministers criticised the event as an “unacceptable development” and highlighted the urgent need for an environment in Venezuela where democratic engagement can flourish without fear of reprisal.

The statement was issued by foreign ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the High Representative of the European Union. It emphasised the necessity of a “peaceful, democratic, negotiated, and Venezuelan-led solution” to the ongoing crisis in the South American nation.

“We, the G7 foreign ministers, denounce the lack of democratic legitimacy of today’s purported inauguration of Nicolas Maduro as president of Venezuela,” the statement read. “We reject Maduro’s continued and repressive grasp at power at the expense of the Venezuelan people, who voted for change peacefully and in large numbers on July 28, 2024, according to independent observers and publicly available electoral records.”

The ministers also condemned the ongoing repression of civil society and opposition figures, including Maria Corina Machado, an opposition leader, and Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, whom they described as the rightful winner of the July election. Gonzalez, reportedly forced into exile in September, received significant public support during the election, according to credible sources.

“In a democracy, no political leader should be forced to seek refuge outside their homeland. This unacceptable development underscores the urgent need for an environment in Venezuela where democratic engagement can flourish without fear of reprisal,” the statement added.

The G7 expressed concern over Venezuela’s continued disregard for democratic governance, rule of law, and human rights, pointing to reports of arbitrary arrests and abuses against civilians, including children and activists, following peaceful democratic protests.

“We are deeply troubled by the arbitrary arrests and other abuses of civilians, including children, youths, and activists, following the peaceful democratic protests after the election,” the statement noted.

The humanitarian crisis in Venezuela and its impact on regional stability were also highlighted, with the G7 pointing to the growing number of Venezuelans fleeing the country in search of better living conditions and safety.

The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to working with Venezuelans and the international community to ensure the democratic will of the people is respected and a peaceful transition of power is established.

Nicolas Maduro was sworn in for a third six-year term on Friday, despite allegations of voter fraud from his opponent, Edmundo Gonzalez. International pressure and sanctions, particularly from the United States, have recognised Gonzalez as the legitimate winner of the July election.

During the swearing-in ceremony, Maduro expressed his commitment to peace and democracy. “May this new presidential term bring peace, prosperity, equality, and a new democracy,” he declared, vowing to fulfil his mandate.

Meanwhile, opposition leader Maria Corina Machado led protests against Maduro’s government, with reports claiming she was briefly detained during a demonstration. After her release, Machado reaffirmed her resolve to challenge Maduro’s rule via social media.

The situation in Venezuela remains tense as international stakeholders and local opposition leaders continue to challenge Maduro’s presidency.

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