The ECR Group said it “stands by” María Corina Machado, leader of the democratic opposition in Venezuela and winner of the 2024 Sakharov Prize.
The statement on Friday comes in light of the current events in Venezuela.
The ECR stated that it remains “deeply concerned” about the state of democracy and human rights in the country under the regime of Nicolás Maduro.
Fear of repression in Venezuela has escalated in recent days as the inauguration of Maduro’s third term approaches on Friday, following last year’s election.
Opposition leader Corina Machado said she is now safe after her aides said she was “intercepted” at a protest in Caracas on the eve of President Nicolas Maduro’s inauguration.
Machado’s political group wrote on X that she had been “violently intercepted” on Thursday while leaving the rally.
Speaking on behalf of the ECR Group, MEP and Vice-Chair of the Euro-Latin Parliamentary Assembly Carlo Fidanza (Italy) express concern.
The deputy said:
“María Corina Machado’s struggle is a testament to her courage and the resilience of the Venezuelan people. María Corina remains a beacon of hope and freedom, not only for Venezuela, but for democracies around the world.
“We urge María Corina to remain strong. Her voice represents the aspirations of millions of people seeking a future of freedom and dignity. The ECR Group stands unwaveringly with her and with all Venezuelans fighting for their fundamental rights.
“Maduro must recognise the will of the Venezuelan people as expressed in the presidential elections on 28 July 2024, won by the legitimate President Edmundo González Urrutia. It is time for Maduro to step aside and allow for a peaceful and democratic transition. The courage of the Venezuelan people inspires us all and we pledge our continued support in their struggle for justice and freedom”.
The ECR Group said it “eiterates its solidarity” with Corina Machado “and all Venezuelans who dream of a free, democratic and prosperous future.”
