Smartmatic’s Controversial Role in Venezuelan Elections Undermined by Ongoing Software Use After Withdrawal
Smartmatic, the electronic voting firm, claimed to have exited Venezuela post-2017 allegations of electoral fraud. However, documents reveal that their software was used in subsequent elections, often secretly, portraying a contradictory narrative. Sources indicate efforts were made to obscure Smartmatic’s involvement, as the company later acknowledged software usage after initially denying it.
Smartmatic, a company specializing in electronic voting solutions, publicly condemned the Venezuelan government for electoral fraud during the National Constituent Assembly election in 2017. Following this controversy, Smartmatic announced its withdrawal from conducting elections in Venezuela after providing its services for over a decade. However, documents obtained from Venezuela’s National Electoral Council (CNE) reveal that Smartmatic’s software was utilized in subsequent elections, including municipal elections in December 2017 and the controversial presidential election in May 2018, often through clandestine arrangements with an Argentine firm, Ex-Cle. Sources involved with the National Electoral Council indicated that there was a deliberate effort to conceal Smartmatic’s participation in these elections by engaging a third-party provider. Despite initial denials from Smartmatic regarding its software’s usage post-withdrawal, the company later acknowledged that its software was involved but argued that it could only be deemed authentic if Smartmatic had maintained oversight throughout the electoral process. The narrative of Smartmatic’s association with the Venezuelan elections is further complicated by conflicting statements from the company and its legal representatives, who claim that any engagements with the Venezuelan electoral authority were under coercion due to threats from the regime. These developments have raised significant questions about the integrity of the electoral process in Venezuela, especially given the international community’s view of the 2018 elections as fraudulent. Smartmatic’s historical ties to Venezuela, where it began operations in 2000, and recent allegations of foreign corruption involving the company in the Philippines further complicate its reputation.
Smartmatic emerged in Venezuela in the early 2000s, providing electronic voting technologies during a time when the country was transitioning to automated electoral processes. The company’s services were pivotal in several elections, notably during Hugo Chavez’s presidency. However, as claims of fraud became increasingly prominent, particularly during the 2017 National Constituent Assembly elections, Smartmatic distanced itself from Venezuela, citing threats to its reputation and integrity. Despite this withdrawal, evidence suggests that its software continued to play a role in subsequent elections, leading to accusations of continued involvement under false pretenses.
In summation, the evidence presented raises critical concerns regarding the integrity and authenticity of Venezuelan elections subsequent to Smartmatic’s announced withdrawal in 2017. The company’s initial denial of involvement in these elections contrasts sharply with the testimonies of former electoral officials and documents indicating its software was utilized. This situation underscores the ongoing complexities surrounding electoral transparency in Venezuela and the ethical implications of Smartmatic’s past dealings with the government.
Original Source: www.miamiherald.com
