The Justice and Peace Center (Cepaz), together with other civil society organizations, published a statement in which it denounces the serious functional distortion of the Public Ministry.
“The institution systematically operated as an instrument of threat, persecution and criminalization against those who claim their rights and against those who document or accompany victims of human rights violations,” states the letter released by Cepaz.
The organizations announced that they will follow up on the fulfillment of an urgent agenda by the new designated authorities. This agenda responds to the obligations imposed by the Constitution and international commitments regarding human rights.
In the text addressed to the Attorney General’s Office of the Republic, the entities raise four specific demands:
Immediately cease the processes of investigation and prosecution for political reasons, request the respective dismissals and promote the immediate release of people detained for political reasons or for the exercise of their civil and political rights, as well as those arbitrarily excluded from the benefits provided for in the amnesty law.
Start criminal investigations effective, independent and objective actions against officials that the Fact-Finding Mission identifies as allegedly responsible for serious human rights violations and crimes against humanity. These processes must include effective protection measures for victims and witnesses.
Cooperate actively and genuine with the Prosecutor’s Office of the International Criminal Court in the ongoing investigations into the situation in Venezuela, as well as with other national and international mechanisms to combat impunity.
Preserve and safeguard all evidence related to serious violations of human rights and crimes against humanity committed in the context of political persecution, especially those found in detention centers or other state agencies.
The statement is published at a key moment for the institutional transition and seeks to guarantee respect for human rights in the country.
