FridayOL

Caracas, Venezuela – The Venezuelan Observatory of Finance (OVF) has strongly condemned the recent wave of criminalization and detentions targeting prominent economic experts in Venezuela. The organization, along with opposition party Vente Venezuela, is demanding the immediate release of Rodrigo Cabezas, a former Venezuelan minister, and calling for respect for constitutional guarantees.

These actions raise serious concerns about the government's attempts to silence dissent and suppress critical analysis of the nation's economic crisis. The OVF argues that targeting experts who offer informed perspectives is detrimental to the country's ability to find sustainable solutions to its complex economic challenges.

“The criminalization of economic experts is a clear indication of the government’s intolerance for scrutiny and independent thought,” stated a spokesperson for the OVF. “Instead of engaging in constructive dialogue and addressing the root causes of the economic problems, the regime resorts to intimidation and repression.”

The Case of Rodrigo Cabezas

Rodrigo Cabezas, a former Minister of Economy and Finance, has been detained amid allegations that remain unclear. His family, along with Vente Venezuela, are pleading for respect for his constitutional rights and a fair legal process. They emphasize that Cabezas's expertise and experience are valuable assets to the nation, and his detention serves only to hinder progress.

“We demand the immediate release of Rodrigo Cabezas and an end to this pattern of targeting individuals who speak truth to power,” declared Maria Fajardo, a leader within Vente Venezuela. “These actions are a violation of fundamental human rights and undermine the rule of law.”

Broader Implications for Economic Analysis

The OVF highlights that this isn't an isolated incident. Several other economists and analysts have faced similar harassment, intimidation, and even legal action in recent years. This climate of fear discourages independent research and open discussion, making it increasingly difficult to accurately assess the country's economic situation and develop effective policy recommendations.

The organization warns that the government's actions are not only unjust but also counterproductive. By silencing critical voices, the regime deprives itself of valuable insights and perpetuates a cycle of economic mismanagement. The OVF urges the international community to condemn these practices and to advocate for the protection of freedom of expression and academic freedom in Venezuela.

The situation underscores the fragility of democratic institutions in Venezuela and the ongoing struggle for economic transparency and accountability. The OVF remains committed to defending the rights of economic experts and promoting a more open and inclusive dialogue about the country's future.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.