FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 26 February 2019
The African National Congress (ANC) has noted the escalation of the crisis in Venezuela with deep concern. We find it particularly alarming that this crisis appears to be fuelled by external parties, most notably the United States. We welcome the debate on the matter scheduled by the UN Security Council on Tuesday, 26 February 2019.
It remains the ANC’s long held view that interference by any external party on the affairs on a nation with the sole purpose of instigating regime change through unconstitutional means is not only unacceptable, but creates a dangerous world order. The people of Venezuela must be given an opportunity to determine their own future and choose their own government through democratic processes.
South Africa’s democracy is founded on values that regard human rights, the right of the people to choose a government of their own choice, as sacrosanct. We therefore recognise legitimate protests, but hasten to caution against any political party using people as cannon fodder to achieve narrow political ends. The ANC will never support a narrative that suggests that a duly elected President of Venezuela should be deposed via unconstitutional means. The ANC’s foreign policy is grounded on human rights, rule of law and democracy. We will, however, support any democratic process that allows the people to express their will free from any external influence.
The ANC and its Alliance partners stand in solidarity with the people of Venezuela in finding a political solution to the benefit of all people of Venezuela. A Tripartite Alliance delegation led by the Secretary-General will visit Venezuela on a fact-finding mission.
Issued by: African National Congress
Ace Magashule
Secretary-General
Enquiries:
Mhlabunzima Memela
National Media Relations Manager
084 817 9116
