Venezuela Approves Amnesty for Political Prisoners

Venezuelan lawmakers approved an amnesty bill on Thursday that could lead to the release of hundreds of political prisoners detained over the past 27 years, marking a potential step toward addressing long-standing accusations of repression in the South American nation.

The legislation, passed by the National Assembly, grants amnesty for political offenses committed since 1999, when Hugo Chávez first took office as president. It targets individuals prosecuted or convicted in connection with protests and periods of unrest, including major demonstrations in 2014, 2017, 2019, and the disputed 2024 elections. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, who assumed power following a U.S. military operation that removed her predecessor Nicolás Maduro last month, proposed the bill amid international calls for democratic reforms. Rodríguez is expected to sign it into law soon, after which the process for releases could begin.

The measure applies to opposition politicians, activists, journalists, students, and others held on charges linked to dissent. Rights groups estimate 600 to 900 political prisoners remain incarcerated, with documented cases of abuse, torture, and deaths in custody over the...