Caracas, Venezuela – On January 24, 2024, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (TSJ) of Venezuela annulled the election of the leadership of the National Assembly for the 2024-2025 legislative period, reinstating Deputy Jesús Faría as its president. This decision further consolidates control of the Venezuelan government under President Nicolás Maduro and intensifies the ongoing political crisis.
Venezuela’s Supreme Tribunal of Justice (TSJ)
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The Supreme Tribunal of Justice is the highest court in Venezuela. It is a controversial institution, widely criticized for its perceived bias towards the Maduro government and its role in undermining democratic institutions. the TSJ has been accused of overstepping its constitutional authority on numerous occasions.
The TSJ’s decision to annul the National Assembly leadership election was based on allegations of procedural irregularities during the vote. The court argued that the election violated internal regulations of the Assembly.
Example: In a press release on January 24, 2024, the TSJ stated, “The election process did not comply with the established norms, rendering the results null and void.” TSJ Official Statement
National Assembly of Venezuela
The National Assembly is the legislative branch of the Venezuelan government. As 2016, it has been dominated by opposition parties, leading to a prolonged power struggle with the executive branch and the TSJ. The Assembly’s powers have been substantially curtailed by the TSJ in recent years.
Prior to the TSJ’s ruling, the National Assembly had elected Deputy Galeano as its president. The TSJ’s decision effectively removes Galeano and reinstates Faría, a key ally of President Maduro.
Evidence: On January 24, 2024, Deputy Jesús Faría resumed his duties as President of the National Assembly following the TSJ’s ruling. Ultimas Noticias Report
Nicolás Maduro and the Executive Branch
Nicolás Maduro has been the President of Venezuela since 2013. His presidency has been marked by economic crisis, political polarization, and accusations of authoritarianism. The Maduro government has consistently clashed with the National Assembly and the opposition.
The TSJ’s decision to reinstate Faría is widely seen as a move to further consolidate Maduro’s power and weaken the opposition’s control over the legislative branch. The executive branch has consistently supported the TSJ’s actions, despite international criticism.
Example: On January 25, 2024, President Maduro publicly praised the TSJ’s decision, stating it was a “necessary step to restore order and stability” to the National Assembly. Telesur Report
International Reaction
The decision by the TSJ has drawn condemnation from international actors, including the United States and the European Union. These entities view the move as a further erosion of democratic institutions in Venezuela.
Example: On January 25,2024,the U.S. State Department issued a statement calling the TSJ’s decision “a blatant attempt to undermine the democratically elected National Assembly.” U.S. State Department Statement
As of January 25,2026,the situation remains unchanged. Jesús Faría continues to serve as President of the National Assembly, and the political crisis in Venezuela persists. There have been no importent developments regarding the TSJ’s ruling or the legitimacy of the National assembly leadership.
