UN Expert Calls for Immediate Release of Venezuelan Lawyer Amid Concerns of Retaliation

Rocha was abducted by masked state security officials on 27 August 2024 and detained at an undisclosed location until his appearance before the judiciary two days later.

A UN expert expressed serious concern today over the kidnapping and detention of prominent lawyer Perkins Rocha, warning that his abduction may be an act of retaliation for his support of opposition candidates during Venezuela’s recent presidential election. Margaret Satterthwaite, UN Special Rapporteur for the Independence of Judges and Lawyers, highlighted the potential threat to the rule of law and justice system if lawyers are targeted for their legal work.

Rocha was abducted by masked state security officials on 27 August 2024 and detained at an undisclosed location until his appearance before the judiciary two days later. Satterthwaite raised concerns about the possibility of torture and ill-treatment during this period, as well as his continued detention in Helicoide with limited access to counsel and family.

The Special Rapporteur urged the Venezuelan authorities to release Rocha from arbitrary detention and allow him access to his private defence counsel to prepare his case. Satterthwaite also emphasized the troubling pattern of reprisals against opposition representatives and their legal teams in Venezuela, calling for protections to ensure that lawyers are not persecuted for their work.

The UN has formally communicated with the Government of Venezuela regarding Rocha’s detention and treatment.