Brazil’s Lula da Silva Urges Maduro to Respect Venezuelan Election, Warns of “Bloodbath” if Opposition Wins

Venezuela Election: Brazil’s Lula Urges Respect for the Process

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed his concern over warnings from Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro that an opposition victory in Sunday’s election would lead to a "bloodbath."

Condemning Threats of Violence

During a press conference with international agencies in Brasilia, Lula said, "I was scared by Maduro’s statements that if he loses the elections there will be a bloodbath. Those who lose elections will be bathed in votes, not blood."

Calling for a Respected Election

Lula emphasized the importance of a respected democratic process, stating, "Maduro has to learn: when you win, you stay (in power). When you lose, you leave. And you prepare to contest another election." He added, "I hope that’s what happens, for the good of Venezuela and for the good of South America."

Respect and Normalization

Maduro, 61, has been president since 2013 and is seeking a third six-year term. He has cast the election as a choice between "peace and war" and stated that an opposition victory could trigger a "bloodbath." Lula has spoken twice with Maduro and urged him to respect the democratic process, emphasizing that this is the only way for Venezuela to return to normality and attract back people who have left the country to establish economic growth.

International Observation

Lula recently criticized obstacles faced by the opposition and called for greater international observation. Brazil’s government has confirmed it will send two representatives of the Brazilian electoral court and foreign affairs advisor Celso Amorim to observe the election.

Lifting Sanctions

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Lula has also urged the lifting of international sanctions against Venezuela. He hopes the results of next Sunday’s election will be recognized "by everyone" and enable Caracas to quickly return to Mercosur, which suspended Venezuela in 2017.

Election on Sunday

Venezuela holds presidential elections on Sunday, which will be the biggest challenge for Maduro’s regime in its 25 years in power. For the first time, the opposition appears to be the favorite.

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