Venezuela grants amnesty to release political detainees

More than 600 people may still be in custody for political reasons in Venezuela, as estimated by the rights group Foro Penal. The country’s acting president has signed an amnesty bill that could lead to the release of politicians, activists, and lawyers, acknowledging the presence of political detainees in jail for the first time. The law excludes those convicted of military rebellion in 2019 and does not address asset returns, public office bans, or media outlet sanctions. Opposition members have differing opinions on the law, with some seeing it as a step towards reconciliation while others criticize it as a trap.

Want More Context? 🔎