The Citizens' Power

The Citizens' Power is one of the five powers of the State in Venezuela, according to the 1999 Constitution. Its main purpose is to prevent, investigate and sanction acts contrary to public ethics and administrative morality, as well as promote citizen education and guarantee the rights of people against the arbitrariness of public or private power. This power acts as a collegiate body that ensures probity and transparency in public management.

Organs that compose it:

Citizen Power is made up of three fundamental bodies, each one with specific functions:

1. Attorney General's Office:

• Main function: Investigate and prosecute the commission of crimes before the courts, thus protecting the public interest. The Public Ministry is responsible for representing the State in criminal action, and ensuring respect for constitutional rights and guarantees.
• Powers: Among others, the Prosecutor's Office can direct criminal investigations, supervise investigative agencies, protect victims of crimes, and pursue criminal action when appropriate.
• Titular: The Attorney General of the Republic is appointed by the National Assembly for a period of seven years.

1. Ombudsman's Office:

• Main function: Protect and promote human rights, as well as defend citizens against possible abuses of power or violations of fundamental rights by the State or individuals.
• Powers: The Ombudsman's Office can file actions for constitutional protection, sue in defense of human rights, and promote educational initiatives to promote respect for these rights.
• Titular: The Ombudsman is also appointed by the National Assembly for a period of seven years.

1. Comptroller General of the Republic:

• Main function: Control and supervise the use and destination of public resources, guaranteeing transparency in public administration and combating corruption.
• Powers: The Comptroller's Office can audit State institutions, monitor the execution of the national budget and present reports on public financial management.
• Titular: The Comptroller General of the Republic is appointed by the National Assembly and has a mandate of seven years.

Republican Moral Council

These three organs make up the Republican Moral Council, a collegiate entity of Citizen Power. This Council has the responsibility of coordinating the actions of the three bodies and can also sanction public officials who commit ethical misconduct. Its role is key in promoting ethics and responsibility in public management.

This system aims to ensure that citizens have effective protection and control mechanisms against abuse, promoting a culture of accountability and transparency.