(CNN Spanish) — President of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, criticized the electoral process in Venezuela on Monday, amidst political tensions in the neighboring country. A part of the opposition, led by María Corina Machado, has raised concerns about a lack of guarantees to participate in the upcoming July elections.
Petro, who has faced criticism for his perceived support of the Venezuelan government, labeled the situation in Venezuela as an “anti-democratic coup” due to the disqualification of opposition candidate María Corina Machado. He emphasized the importance of the right to choose and be elected, calling it a social right that should not be infringed upon by administrative authorities.
The Venezuelan government has yet to respond to Petro’s comments. The opposition, led by Machado, has accused President Nicolás Maduro of attempting to control the election by disqualifying preferred candidates. The Supreme Court of Venezuela upheld a political disqualification for Machado and her chosen replacement candidate also faced registration challenges.
International observers, including Colombia, have expressed concerns over the electoral process in Venezuela and called for free and fair elections. Machado has called for support from the international community to ensure her candidate’s registration.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula Da Silva also criticized the obstacles faced by opposition candidate Corina Yoris in Venezuela’s elections, citing legal and political concerns. The Brazilian Foreign Ministry echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for compliance with political agreements for the upcoming elections.
Venezuela’s presidential elections are scheduled for July 28, with 13 registered candidates nominated by various political parties. Maduro has declared his candidacy for a third term, vowing to proceed with the elections regardless of opposition participation.