Wasserman Schultz Statement on Venezuelan Election

Washington, DC, December 8, 2015
Going forward, both the opposition parties and the Maduro government must work together to fully implement the rule of law, enforce democratic principles and respect democratic institutions. A strong first step would be releasing political prisoners including Leopoldo Lopez and Daniel Ceballos. All Venezuelans deserve to live in a free and just society.

Washington, DC ­– U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) issued the following statement after Venezuela’s parliamentary election on Sunday:

“I congratulate the people of Venezuela on their historic election this past Sunday. Despite threats and intimidations, brave Venezuelans turned out to the polls to cast their votes overwhelmingly in favor of democratic reform, freedom and liberty.

“As the National Election Council certifies the results and the final vote tallies, I stand with my colleagues in strongly urging those responsible to ensure a complete and transparent accounting. Although the Maduro government has tried to silence dissent, going so far as jailing opposition candidates and physically threatening and intimidating peaceful protesters, those voices spoke clearly in last weekend’s election. Venezuelans voted decisively against the Maduro government’s mishandling of the economy and suppression of basic human rights.

“Going forward, both the opposition parties and the Maduro government must work together to fully implement the rule of law, enforce democratic principles and respect democratic institutions. A strong first step would be releasing political prisoners including Leopoldo Lopez and Daniel Ceballos. All Venezuelans deserve to live in a free and just society.”

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Contact:

Sean Bartlett, Sean.Bartlett@mail.house.gov, 202.225.7931

Geoff Burgan, Geoff.Burgan@mail.house.gov, 202.225.7931