Statement by IDU Chairman Rt. Hon. Stephen Harper on the Situation in Venezuela: “The tyranny in Venezuela can come to an end.”

The International Democrat Union is following the latest developments in Venezuela with hope and concern. On Wednesday, January 23, 2019, the people of Venezuela made a strong statement that they will no longer tolerate the dictatorial regime of Nicolas Maduro.

The IDU stands with the people of Venezuela and supports the President of the democratically elected National Assembly, Mr. Juan Guaido, as interim President of Venezuela. Interim President Guaido is acting on the foundation of the Venezuelan constitution and is therefore the rightful President of the country.

IDU Chairman Stephen Harper stated: “The International Democrat Union recognizes and welcomes Juan Guaido as interim President of Venezuela. Ever since the National Assembly was democratically constituted on January 5th 2016, the dictatorial regime of Nicolas Maduro has tried to destroy this last stronghold of democracy and has brought the nation to a state of chaos. This once free and prosperous country has been dragged into tyranny and poverty by a criminal group of Chavistas.”

“Yesterday, in accordance with Article 231 of Venezuelan Constitution, Juan Guaido took the oath before the National Assembly to become the interim President of the Republic. With this step and the broad support of the people of Venezuela, the tyranny in Venezuela can finally come to an end. We demand a peaceful transition of power.”

The IDU urges all institutions of Venezuela to act in full accordance with the Constitution, to follow legal processes, and to refrain from violence. The IDU also calls upon its members to support interim President Guaido in his mission to bring democracy and the rule of law back to the people of Venezuela.