Statement by IDU Chairman Rt. Hon. Stephen Harper on the Presidential Election in Venezuela

On May 20th, 2018, Venezuela held a presidential election which has been internationally condemned as fraudulent. The main opposition coalition, whose leadership has been imprisoned, forced into exile, or barred from political office, boycotted the contest.
IDU Chairman Rt. Hon. Stephen Harper stated: “Yesterday’s election in Venezuela was neither free nor democratic. It was a farce. Not surprisingly, Mr. Maduro was declared the victor in a contest that was heavily rigged in his favour.
The IDU calls upon its members to denounce the legitimacy of the 20th May elections and to issue direct sanctions against the Maduro dictatorship.
With a participation far below 50%, the Venezuelan people have delivered a silent but powerful message by abstaining from Sunday`s vote.
There is an urgent need to restore the democratic order in Venezuela, release political prisoners, and respect the National Assembly and political opposition.
All IDU members should step up their efforts to create international awareness of the humanitarian and economic catastrophe created by the Maduro regime, to show solidarity with democratic forces at all levels, and to restore a free and prosperous life for the Venezuelan people.”