Lula reiterates request for Venezuelan electoral records after meeting with Boric

President Lula reaffirmed on Monday, the 5th, Brazil’s call for the release of electoral records in Venezuela, defending respect for popular sovereignty during his state visit to Chile. Chile is a strong critic of Nicolás Maduro’s victory.

“I also explained the initiatives I have undertaken with Presidents Gustavo Petro and López Obrador regarding the Venezuelan political process. Respect for popular sovereignty is what drives us to defend the transparency of the results,” he highlighted.

“The commitment to peace is what leads us to call on the parties to dialogue and promote understanding between the government and the opposition,” declared Lula at a press conference alongside Chilean President Gabriel Boric.

Lula also emphasized his commitment to the “uncompromising defense of democracy.” On the other hand, Boric avoided commenting directly on the Venezuelan elections:

“This visit is about the relationship between Chile and Brazil. I know there may be questions about other topics, particularly in relation to Venezuela. I will address that tomorrow afternoon.”

Last Thursday, the presidents of Brazil, Mexico and Colombia asked Venezuela to release the detailed vote count, amid the dispute over the result of the presidential election, which has sparked protests in the country.

Venezuela’s National Electoral Council proclaimed Nicolás Maduro the winner of the July 28 election, with 51% of the vote. However, the opposition, led by Edmundo Gonzalez, did not recognize the results and declared himself president.

In response to criticism, Venezuela expelled diplomats from several countries in the region, including Chile. Following the election, protests and violent clashes between security forces and demonstrators took place in Caracas and other cities, resulting in the arrest of more than 2,000 people.

Washington, ahead of the vote audit, called on the international community to recognize Edmundo Gonzalez as the winner of Venezuela’s presidential election. US and EU lawmakers have threatened to hold Maduro accountable if he does not voluntarily step down as head of state, calling the results fabricated.