The Venezuelan Parliament approved the repeal of the Law Approving the Rome Statute in its first reading, initiating the formal process for the country’s withdrawal from the International Criminal Court.
The legislative proposal, presented by Deputy Roy Daza, received initial approval during the plenary session of the National Assembly.
Consequently, the text will now proceed to a second parliamentary debate as part of the procedure established in the national legal system.
It is worth noting that during his remarks, the deputy argued that the ICC «has become an institution that acts for purposes other than those that motivated its creation.»
He also stated that the international body is currently «being manipulated by the de facto economic, political, and cultural powers of imperialism.»
On the other hand, Daza questioned the selectivity of the Court’s investigations, asking, «What about the children of Gaza? Why isn’t there a condemnation of the crime of genocide being committed there?»
Additionally, he expressed his rejection of what he called attempts to «supplant Venezuelan legislation with international law.»
This legislative decision comes days after the Venezuelan government rejected statements made by ICC Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang.
Meanwhile, the process reflects Caracas’ official position regarding what it considers unequal treatment by international justice bodies.
The parliamentary measure represents a significant step in reaffirming national legal sovereignty and sets a precedent in Venezuela’s relations with international criminal justice mechanisms.