Global Security Studies Practicum

18 October 2011 Leopoldo Lopez speaks during a news conference. Reuters ( CARACAS ) – Venezuela ’s Supreme Court ruled against opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez on 18 October, blocking him from running in the 2012 presidential elections. The ruling follows an opposite verdict by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) on September 2011, allowing Lopez to run for president and dismissing charges of corruption and mishandling of public funds claimed by the Chavez administration. Despite the ruling by Venezuela's Court, Lopez said he will remain in the race against Hugo Chavez. Source:  http://news.yahoo.com/venezuela-blocks-chavez-rivals-presidential.html (Reliability: 9) Comment: The decision by Venezuela ’s Supreme Court is not surprising given how the Chavez administration dismissed past rulings by the IACHR. Lopez is a leading contender in the upcoming opposition’s presidential primary slated for 12 February, when a single unity candidate will be chose...

5 October 2011 Leopoldo Lopez talks to media outlets. Dow Jones Newswires (CARACAS) – The Inter-American Court of Human Rights ( IACHR ) ruled in favor of opposition politician Leopoldo Lopez on 17 September, allowing him to run in Venezuela ’s upcoming 2012 presidential elections. Venezuelan officials barred Lopez from seeking public office in 2005 through 2014 under allegations of mishandling public funds and corruption. Supporters of Lopez argue the charges are a ploy to prevent him and other opposition politicians from running for office. General elections are slated for 7 October 2012 amid questions regarding President Hugo Chavez’s health. Source: http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20110916-712977.html (Reliability: 9) Comment: Despite the IACHR’s ruling in favor of Lopez, Venezuelan officials under President Chavez have ignored the court’s rulings in the past and banned presidential hopefuls from running for office. Lopez is emerging as one of the top con...