Justicia no es venganza The author argues that Venezuela should pursue justice rather than vengeance following the alleged crimes of the current regime, emphasizing the need for an independent judiciary that upholds the rule of law. The article critiques historical instances where the justice system was politicized or used for repression, both in Venezuela and other Latin American countries, likening these to organized criminal enterprises. Ultimately, it calls for an impartial, competent, and independent judicial administration to establish truth, assign responsibility, and repair harm to victims.

• The author advocates for justice over vengeance in Venezuela, citing past suffering under the regime.
• A truly independent judiciary, restored through constitutional and democratic means, is crucial.
• Past experiences in the Americas and Venezuela demonstrate the failure of politicized or ideologized justice.
• The article references Benedicto XVI and San Agustín on the duty of politicians to serve justice and combat injustice.
• The author identifies the ‘original sin’ of the 1999 Constitution’s assault on the judiciary.
• Systematic use of justice to criminalize political debate or contain dissent is highlighted as a pervasive issue.
• Examples from Brazil, El Salvador, and historical Venezuelan events illustrate the misuse of the justice system.
• The ‘judicialization of politics’ is identified as a virus affecting even strong democracies.
• The practice of ‘lawfare’ is described as using legal means to achieve political ends, particularly against Donald Trump.
• The article stresses the urgency of preventing the erosion of fundamental rights outside of democracy and the rule of law.
• A future Venezuelan administration of justice must be impartial, competent, upright, brave, and independent.
• The judiciary’s role in establishing the truth of past events and ensuring reparations for victims is emphasized.