Venezuela to Free Scores Under New Amnesty Law
Newser • • world
Key Points:
- Venezuela plans to release at least 379 individuals detained for political reasons following applications under a newly signed amnesty bill, benefiting opposition members, activists, journalists, and human rights defenders.
- The amnesty law marks a significant shift as Venezuelan authorities have long denied holding political prisoners, and releases are scheduled to occur between Friday and Saturday, with more possible within 15 days.
- The law excludes individuals convicted of serious crimes such as homicide, drug trafficking, grave human rights violations, and military rebellion, prompting human rights groups to urge broader application to all political detainees.
- Initial releases have begun in the state of Barinas, but the verification process for amnesty beneficiaries is still underway, according to Venezuela-based prisoners' rights organization
