Venezuelan teacher fired after joining protests, criticizing government

A teacher in Venezuela's Bolívar state has reported being fired after participating in pro-democracy demonstrations and criticizing the government. Nayibet Morales, a former director, stated that authorities informed her of her "cessation of functions," citing her alleged non-recognition of the government as the reason.

Morales asserts that the decision was politically motivated, stemming from her critical stance and protest activities. She also described pressure within educational institutions, where staff are allegedly urged to engage in Chavista-related activities unrelated to teaching.

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We cannot express freely what we want.

"We cannot express freely what we want," Morales stated, highlighting the perceived limitations on educators' public expression. Her situation occurs amid warnings from human rights organizations like Aula Abierta about restrictions on free speech and reprisals against education sector workers in Venezuela.

Morales questioned the impact of political differences on educators' careers, arguing that administrative decisions should be based on professional criteria, not political alignment. "It cannot be that we live oppressed and it should not be like this," she expressed, insisting that teachers should have the freedom to voice their opinions without facing professional sanctions. Her complaint adds to existing reports of challenges faced by Venezuela's education sector in exercising rights like free expression and union participation.

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It cannot be that we live oppressed and it should not be like this.