Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced a general amnesty bill on Friday that could lead to the release of hundreds of political prisoners, including opposition leaders, journalists, and human rights activists. The measure, which the ruling party-controlled National Assembly will take up urgently, marks the latest concession since Rodríguez assumed power on January 3 following the U.S.-backed capture of former President Nicolás Maduro.
Key Developments
- Amnesty Bill Scope: The bill covers political detentions from 1999 to the present, excluding those convicted of murder, drug trafficking, corruption, or human rights violations.
- U.S. Detainees Released: The U.S. Embassy confirmed the release of all known American citizens held in Venezuela, though the exact number remains unclear.
- El Helicoide Prison Closure: Rodríguez also announced the shutdown of the notorious El Helicoide prison, a site linked to torture and human rights abuses, which will be repurposed into a sports and cultural center.
Reactions and Context
- Opposition and Advocates: Alfredo Romero, head of Foro Penal, welcomed the bill but expressed skepticism, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and transparency in its implementation.
- U.S. Response: Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the release of American detainees via social media, though details on the number remain pending.
- Historical Context: The amnesty bill follows recent prisoner swaps, including the July 2024 release of 10 Americans in exchange for Venezuelan detainees held in El Salvador.
Unanswered Questions
- The full text of the bill has not been released, leaving the specific criteria for amnesty unclear.
- The long-term impact on Venezuela's political landscape remains uncertain, as the bill's implementation and enforcement details are still pending.