Accusations of Extortion Against Venezuelan Journalists Ahead of Presidential Elections
Venezuelan journalists accused of extortion and criminal activities ahead of July presidential elections, alleged to be part of a structure financed by an ex-petroleum minister. Journalists deny the accusations and are in exile for revealing government corruption.
Key Points
- Venezuelan journalists accused of being part of a criminal structure financed by an ex-petroleum minister
- Journalists allegedly demanded bribes to soften or kill negative articles against government officials
- Rights group and UN experts denounce rise in persecution ahead of July elections
- Opposition leader barred from seeking election, and several opposition activists arrested