Bar Assn. denounces restrictions on constitutional rights, pressure on legal profession

By THE STAR STAFF

Puerto Rico Bar Association (CAAPR by its initials in Spanish) President Vivian Godineaux Villaronga expressed concern on Thursday regarding actions and public statements that, in the organization’s view, have limited civic participation, freedom of expression, access to public information, and access to justice.

“The Constitution of Puerto Rico clearly establishes that our system of government aims to promote the general welfare and ensure the full enjoyment of human rights,” Godineaux Villaronga said in a written statement. “However, in recent times, we have observed concerning limitations on essential rights …” 

The CAAPR also highlighted the deployment of police force against individuals demonstrating over issues related to water and electrical services, warning of potential violations of constitutional rights.

“The government’s response, involving disproportionate deployments of police force, raises serious concerns regarding the safety of demonstrators and potential violations of their constitutional rights,” CAAPR Vice President Yanira Reyes said.

Godineaux Villaronga also maintained that there are restrictions on the exercise of freedom of the press that must be addressed urgently, and she defended access to public information as an indispensable constitutional right for government oversight.

Godineaux Villaronga also asserted that legal professionals must be able to represent their clients without facing pressure linked to the individual’s identity, the nature of the case, or the legal position adopted.

“Lawyers are essential to ensuring access to justice,” she said.

Representatives from the Overseas Press Club, the Puerto Rico Journalists Association, Ayuda Legal Puerto Rico, the Legal Aid Society, Kilómetro 0, the Legal Aid Union, Amnesty International Puerto Rico, the ACLU of Puerto Rico, and municipal assembly member Daisy Sánchez participated in the conference.