Venezuela Approves Amnesty Bill To Free Political Detainees
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez proposed the law after U.S. forces captured Nicolás Maduro on Jan. 3; it could free hundreds detained for political reasons but excludes serious crimes.
Overview
Venezuela's legislature approved an amnesty bill on Thursday that could lead to the release of politicians, activists and others detained for political reasons.
The law offers general amnesty for politically motivated prosecutions or convictions from 1999 to the present while excluding homicide, drug trafficking, corruption and grave human-rights crimes, according to lawmakers.
Opposition figures and rights groups offered cautious support but warned about implementation, with María Corina Machado blaming U.S. pressure and Foro Penal leaders calling for inclusive, transparent, non-impunity releases.
Rights group Foro Penal has tallied 448 releases and estimated more than 600 people are in custody for political reasons, while government statements have claimed over 800 releases.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez is expected to sign the law and National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez said releases would occur swiftly, with Delcy Rodríguez inviting the U.N. rights office to verify them.
Analysis
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FAQ
The bill provides general amnesty for politically motivated prosecutions or convictions from 1999 to the present, potentially freeing hundreds of politicians, activists, and others detained for political reasons, but excludes serious crimes like homicide, drug trafficking, corruption, grave human-rights violations, and inciting military actions against the nation.[1]
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez proposed the law following the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro on January 3, 2026, amid pressure from Washington.[1]
Rights group Foro Penal estimates more than 600 people are in custody for political reasons, having tallied 448 releases, while government statements claim over 800 releases.[1]
Opposition figures and rights groups offer cautious support, warning about implementation, potential selective application to absolve government members, and exclusion of genuine political prisoners; U.N. experts urge limiting scope to victims of human rights abuses.[1]
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez is expected to sign the law, with National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez stating releases would occur swiftly, and an invitation extended to the U.N. rights office to verify them.[1]
History
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