Maduro's main opposition denounces the kidnapping of her campaign manager by Venezuelan intelligence

In another episode of political repression in Venezuela, the Bolivarian Intelligence Service (SEBIN) on Friday arrested Emil Brandt, a member of the Vente Venezuela party and campaign director of the opposition party Maria Corina Machado, in Barinas state. Maria Corina denounced this action on social media, describing what happened as a kidnapping, just hours after she traveled across the state.

No official information has been provided about the reasons for the arrest, but the charges are likely to include treason or terrorism, methods often used by Nicolas Maduro's government to intimidate the opposition.

Maria Corina Machado, the main opponent who has a chance of beating Maduro in the election, expressed her indignation, saying the action is a violation of the Barbados Agreement and shows Maduro's wrong choice. It called for a firm response from national and international bodies that support holding fair presidential elections in Venezuela.

In January, regional members of Maria Corina's Fente Venezuela party were arrested, without revealing the reasons. This situation highlights the continuing political persecution in the country, where suppression of opponents has become a common practice.

Lawyers associated with the case denounced the enforced disappearance of activists and filed legal challenges for information about the whereabouts of detainees. Venezuela faces criticism for its lack of respect for human rights and political freedom, with the government accused of committing systematic violations.

With information from O Globo newspaper.