France has issued a call for caution and restraint from Venezuelan authorities following the high-profile detention of a prominent opposition activist. The French government emphasized that the voice and will of the Venezuelan people must be the primary guide for any political process in the country.
France's Diplomatic Statement on Venezuela
The French foreign ministry released a carefully worded statement reacting to recent events in Venezuela. The diplomatic communication urged the government of President Nicolás Maduro to respect fundamental legal guarantees and human rights. This statement came directly in response to the arrest of Rocío San Miguel, a well-known activist and head of the non-governmental organization Control Ciudadano.
San Miguel was taken into custody on Friday, February 9, 2024, at the Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas. She was traveling out of the country with her daughter when the arrest occurred. Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek William Saab later confirmed the detention, alleging her connection to a recently unveiled conspiracy plot. The French response underscores international concern over the treatment of opposition figures.
Details of the Arrest and Allegations
The arrest of Rocío San Miguel is tied to serious accusations from the Maduro government. Authorities claim she is linked to a conspiracy plan dubbed "White Bracelet." Attorney General Saab stated that five other individuals connected to San Miguel were also detained as part of the same investigation. These include her daughter, two brothers, a former partner, and another individual associated with her NGO.
Venezuelan officials presented the alleged plot as a threat to the nation's stability. The government's narrative frames this as a necessary security action. However, the detention has drawn swift criticism from human rights groups and opposition circles, who view it as the latest move to suppress dissent ahead of a critical election year.
International Reaction and the Path Forward
France's position aligns with a broader international appeal for democratic norms in Venezuela. The French statement stressed that "the voice of Venezuelans must take precedence" in determining the country's future. This is interpreted as a clear message supporting free and fair electoral processes where the populace can express its will without intimidation.
The diplomatic caution from Paris adds to the global scrutiny on Maduro's administration. The call for respecting "fundamental guarantees" highlights worries about judicial overreach and the shrinking space for political opposition. As Venezuela navigates a complex political landscape, the international community, led by voices like France, is watching closely, advocating for a resolution that prioritizes the democratic rights of its citizens above all else.
