The African Bar Association (AfBA) has strongly condemned what it describes as an act of aggression and a breach of the sovereignty of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela following a United States military operation that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
In a statement issued by the association, AfBA said the U.S. action represents a serious violation of fundamental principles of international law, including the United Nations Charter, which prohibits the use of force against the territorial integrity and political independence of sovereign states without lawful justification. AfBA noted that recent developments have drawn global attention and concern over respect for international norms.
AfBA emphasised that any military intervention must adhere strictly to international legal frameworks and expressed deep concern that the operation in Venezuela did not align with accepted exceptions such as self-defence or approvals under Chapter VII of the UN Charter. The association argued that actions outside these parameters threaten the established legal order and risk undermining the peaceful coexistence of nations.
The association also highlighted the broader implications of the operation, warning that such an approach could set a dangerous precedent where powerful states act with impunity, potentially eroding the rule of law and encouraging similar violations in other regions. These concerns reflect wider international reactions, including statements of grave concern from the African Union, which has urged restraint and respect for state sovereignty.
AfBA reaffirmed its solidarity with the people of Venezuela and other countries affected by external military interventions. It urged the United Nations, particularly the UN Security Council, and the global community to take urgent steps to uphold the principles of state sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful resolution of disputes. The association stressed that genuine peace and stability can only be achieved when international law is respected, and all nations are held accountable to the same legal standards.
The statement was signed by AfBA President High Chief Ibrahim Eddy Mark and Secretary General Dr. Prudence Acirokop.
