Venezuelan NGO Claims Arbitrary Arrest of Doctor Amid Canonization Celebrations

Dr. Fernández was arrested on October 20, a day after the Canonization of José Gregorio Hernández, raising concerns about political repression in Venezuela amid ongoing activism.

• Dr. Fernández was detained by the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service at his clinic, Centro Clínico Marci Ríos, in Mérida, on October 20, following the Canonization of José Gregorio Hernández.
• The arrest occurred shortly after celebrations for the Canonization of the first two Venezuelan saints, raising alarms among groups like Vente Venezuela and Un Nuevo Tiempo regarding political motivations.
• Located in Isnotú, Trujillo, Venezuela, the Canonization of José Gregorio Hernández has been a significant event for the Catholic community, yet his arrest highlights ongoing state repression against dissent.