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Venezuela issues measures ensuring voter protection ahead of elections

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
22 Jul 2024 08:18

The resolution aims to "safeguard the inviolability of borders and prevent the activities of persons who could represent threats to the security" of Venezuela.

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Supporters of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro flash victory signs during a campaign rally in the Petare neighborhood of Caracas, Venezuela, Thursday, July 18, 2024. (AP)

The Venezuelan ministries of defense and interior have issued a resolution to ensure voter protection and participation in the country's presidential elections on July 28.

Accordingly, the Strategic Operational Command of the Bolivarian National Armed Force (Ceofanb), through the Strategic Regions of Integral Defense, is tasked with enforcing strict control over people's movement on various routes.

The resolution aims to "safeguard the inviolability of borders and prevent the activities of persons who could represent threats to the security" of Venezuela during the presidential elections.

It also bans the sale of alcohol and fireworks, the carrying of knives and firearms, and restricts the movement of heavy cargo vehicles across Venezuela.

Additionally, public gatherings, demonstrations, or any similar activities that could disrupt the electoral process will be prohibited.

Elsewhere, the resolution states that each police force will continue to provide services to ensure security in compliance with Ceofanb's instructions.

Ten candidates are running for the election, with the competition limited mostly to incumbent President Nicolas Maduro and the opposition's Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia – a former ambassador who has never held public office.

Maduro signed in June a document with several candidates to respect the outcome of the election.

It is noteworthy that Maduro's 2018 reelection was rejected as "illegitimate" by most Western countries.

Maduro warned Saturday that the vote outcome would decide the country's future: "whether it becomes a peaceful Venezuela or a convulsed, violent and conflict-ridden Venezuela. Peace or war."