In brief
In a significant development for human rights in Venezuela, at least 80 political prisoners were released under pressure from the US. Human rights group Foro Penal is verifying the identities of those freed as more releases are anticipated. Despite claims of over 600 releases by interim President Delcy Rodriguez, Foro Penal suggests the figure may be inflated. The backdrop of these events includes the recent capture of President Nicolás Maduro, leading to intensified international scrutiny.
A leading Venezuelan human rights group reports that at least 80 political prisoners have been released amid growing pressure from the US. Alfredo Romero, head of Foro Penal, stated that the organization is verifying the identities of those released across the country, signifying potential for more to follow.
This release follows the recent high-profile operation in which Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was seized and taken to New York to face drug trafficking charges. In a statement, interim President Delcy Rodriguez claimed that over 600 prisoners had been released, but Foro Penal has contested this figure.
Romero highlighted the circumstances on social media, showcasing individuals like Foro Penal colleague Kennedy Tejeda, who had been imprisoned since August 2024. Lawyer Gonzalo Himiob also emphasized that numbers could surpass 80 as their verification process continues.
Despite the releases, many of those freed still face unresolved legal issues and restrictions on their public speech, leaving them in a state of uncertainty. Prior to this weekend, only 156 political prisoners' releases were confirmed since January 8.
Included among the released individuals are opposition figures and at least five Spanish nationals. Rodriguez has announced plans for a call with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, to confirm the lists of those freed.
The Venezuelan government's stance has long been accused of stifling dissent through detentions, which they argue were for criminal conduct rather than political motivation — especially following the contentious 2024 presidential election that many dispute.
