Venezuela’s "Simon Bolivar Act" could silence political opposition for decades: Video
Venezuela’s National Assembly has approved the "Liberator Simon Bolivar Act," a controversial law imposing harsh penalties on individuals who support or facilitate international sanctions against President Nicolas Maduro’s regime.
The legislation sets prison sentences of 25 to 30 years for those found guilty of promoting, instigating, or assisting in the adoption of coercive or punitive measures against Venezuela by foreign entities. Additionally, violators may face fines exceeding $1 million and a ban from holding public office for up to 60 years.
National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez described the law as a defence mechanism against foreign intervention. "This is an act of overthrowing an empire that represents an extreme danger," he declared during the session, the AFP reports.
The law also targets individuals who support or participate in armed actions against the country. Critics argue it further erodes freedom of expression and political opposition in the crisis-hit nation.
The new law comes in the wake of the U.S. House of Representatives passing the BOLIVAR Act on November 19, which seeks to bar federal agencies from engaging with the Maduro regime. While the U.S. bill has yet to pass the Senate or receive President Joe Biden’s signature, it has sparked outrage in Caracas, with officials labelling it a violation of the United Nations Charter.
The Maduro government sees the "Liberator Simon Bolivar Act" as a countermeasure to international efforts it claims to undermine Venezuela’s sovereignty.
