Fernandez accuses Venezuelan government of pressuring courts

www.vheadline.com Posted: Thursday, February 27, 2003 By: Robert Rudnicki

Venezuelan Federation of Chambers of Commerce & Industry (Fedecamaras) president Carlos Fernandez is accusing the government of pressuring the courts into taking action against opposition leaders, including himself.

Fernandez comments came during a press conference at his home in Valencia where he is currently under house arrest while awaiting trial for several charges, including treason, for his role as strike leader of the two month long stoppage that started on December 2 and was called off in all but the petroleum sector early this month after failing to achieve its objective of ousting President Hugo Chavez Frias and his government.

Fernandez called on the judiciary to carry out independent and impartial investigations "that will lead to truthful results" without any pressure from any party.  The Fedecamaras leader also thanked his supporters for the demonstrations and protests across the country demanding his release.