The African Union (AU) has expressed deep concern over recent developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, including the reported abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and military attacks on state institutions.
In a communiqué issued Saturday night on its official website, the continental body said it was following the situation with grave concern, describing the developments as troubling and potentially destabilising.
The AU reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the principles of international law, particularly respect for state sovereignty, territorial integrity and the right of peoples to self-determination, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.
The organisation underscored the importance of dialogue, peaceful resolution of disputes, and adherence to constitutional and institutional frameworks, stressing the need for cooperation, good neighbourliness and peaceful coexistence among nations.
According to the AU, Venezuela’s complex internal challenges can only be sustainably resolved through inclusive political dialogue among Venezuelans themselves.
“The AU expresses its solidarity with the Venezuelan people and reiterates its commitment to the promotion of peace, stability and mutual respect among nations and regions,” the communiqué stated.
It further called on all parties involved to exercise restraint, responsibility and respect for international law in order to prevent escalation and preserve regional peace and stability.
Meanwhile, Venezuela’s Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court has ordered Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez to assume the role of acting president following President Maduro’s reported detention during an operation allegedly carried out by U.S. forces.
The court said the decision was taken to ensure administrative continuity and the comprehensive defence of the nation. It also disclosed that further deliberations would be held to determine the appropriate legal framework to guarantee continuity of governance, state administration and national sovereignty in the face of the president’s forced absence.
Source: News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
