Venezuela Grants Amnesty to 379 Political Prisoners; Many More Await Release
TL/DR –
Venezuelan authorities have granted amnesty to 379 political prisoners, following a new law enacted by interim authorities in the wake of an abduction of President Nicolas Maduro by the US. The National Assembly adopted the law unanimously, thereby raising hopes for the release of hundreds of political prisoners. However, the new legislation has faced criticism from opposition figures as it appears to include carve-outs for some offenses previously used by authorities to target Maduro’s political opponents.
Under a new law, Venezuelan authorities liberate 379 political prisoners, raising hopes for others once alleged to plot against the government.
After the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro by the US, 379 political prisoners in Venezuela have been granted amnesty by interim authorities under a new law.
The law, unanimously adopted by Venezuela’s National Assembly, signals hope for the release of hundreds of political prisoners.
Jorge Arreaza, in charge of the amnesty process, announced the imminent release of these 379 prisoners in a televised interview.
However, the new legislation, criticised for excluding those accused of armed actions against Venezuela’s sovereignty and security forces convicted of “terrorism”, doesn’t apply automatically.
The law also implicates opposition figures like Maria Corina Machado, accused by Interim President Delcy Rodriguez of promoting foreign intervention, and excludes members of security forces implicated in terrorism-related activities.
Since Maduro’s abduction, hundreds have been conditionally released by the Rodriguez government.
‘Amnesty is not automatic’
NGO Foro Penal estimated about 650 political detainees, a number that hasn’t been updated.
Alfredo Romero, Director of Foro Penal, clarified that amnesty requires a court process. This process, perceived as part of Maduro’s oppression, doesn’t guarantee automatic amnesty.
Opposition politician Juan Pablo Guanipa celebrated his release shortly after the bill’s adoption. “I am now completely free”, he shared on social media, calling for the freedom of all political prisoners and the return of exiles.
Hundreds, maybe thousands, of Venezuelans have been imprisoned over alleged plans to overthrow Maduro’s government. After Maduro’s arrest on drug trafficking charges, Rodriguez assumed leadership with US President Donald Trump’s consent, given she complies with Washington’s directives.
The US now controls Venezuela’s oil sales, with Trump promising a share of profits for Washington.
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