Lula Calls for Transparency in Venezuelan Elections Amid Authoritarian Concerns

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva commented on the Venezuelan government's authoritarian tendencies but refrained from labeling it as a dictatorship. Lula emphasized Brazil's demand for detailed voting tallies from Venezuela's contested July elections. He called for transparency while suggesting a coalition government as a potential solution.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva remarked on Friday that while the Venezuelan government exhibits authoritarian tendencies, it doesn't qualify as a dictatorship. In a radio interview, Lula stated, "Venezuela has a very unpleasant regime, but I don't think it's a dictatorship." He clarified that although the government displays some authoritarian features, it is not akin to many dictatorships globally.

Lula reaffirmed Brazil's demand for Venezuela to publish the voting tallies of the disputed elections that reinstated President Nicolas Maduro in late July. Both Maduro and the opposition have claimed victory, leading Brazil and neighboring Colombia to seek a resolution. The nations, along with the U.S., suggested a new election, which was rejected by both Maduro and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.

Lula stressed that he would recognize the winner of the July vote only if electoral authorities released comprehensive voting results. "Where are the tallies? I can only recognize a winner if they prove the election was democratic and clean," he asserted. Proposals for a coalition government are being considered by Lula and Colombian President Gustavo Petro, aimed at encouraging Maduro to negotiate.

(With inputs from agencies.)