The UN human rights office, OHCHR, on Friday welcomed the Nobel Peace Prize committee’s decision to name opposition leader Maria Machado as this year’s laureate, in recognition of her work promoting the Venezuelan people’s democratic hopes. “We congratulate Maria Corina Machado on being announced as the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize,” said OHCHR spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan. “This recognition reflects the clear aspirations of the people of Venezuela for free and fair elections, for civil and political rights and for the rule of law. The High Commissioner has consistently spoken out in support of these values.”. The 58-year-old politician who was barred from running in last year’s presidential elections, lives in hiding inside Venezuela and was briefly detained after attending an opposition rally in January. She was rapidly released reportedly following international pressure. Ms. Machado thanked the Nobel committee for the honour saying it was the “achievement of a whole society…I am just one person. I certainly do not deserve this.”
Nobel Peace Prize winner Machado’s values represent best hopes of Venezuelans: UN rights office (UN News)
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