The latest decision upholds the sanction on the opposition political organization, keeping it suspended for nine months due to an investigation into alleged irregular financing.

The appeal sought to overturn the measure, but TCE Judge Patricio Maldonado rejected it.

Maldonado argued that he does not have the authority to amend a measure that derives from a previous resolution of the electoral court, issued within an ongoing process.

The Movement’s suspension was ordered by electoral judge Joaquin Viteri, following a request from the Attorney General’s Office in the so-called “Caja Chica” case.

The investigation is looking into an alleged organized crime for asset laundering purposes, linked to the supposed entry of money from Venezuela to finance the 2023 presidential campaign.

abo/iff/arc/avr