Venezuela's new government released 17 political prisoners on Saturday, February 14. National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez announced on social media the release of prisoners held in the 7th Zone prison in Caracas, but did not mention their names.
The release of the group of political prisoners occurred during a parliamentary debate on an amnesty law aimed at stopping the persecution of opponents. The law covers charges brought against opponents of Venezuela's former President Nicolas Maduro and his predecessor Hugo Chavez over the past 27 years.
Deputies postponed the adoption of the law on Friday due to disagreements over its implementation. The debate was based on a clause requiring defendants to appear in court to submit an amnesty application. The debate will continue on February 19.
The Essence of Reforms in Venezuela
The law is a central part of the reforms of interim President Delcy Rodriguez, who is the sister of the Parliamentary President. If the amnesty comes into force, it will cover charges of "treason," "terrorism," and "incitement to hatred" against which hundreds of opponents have been convicted.
The draft law was approved in a first reading last week. According to data from the non-governmental organization Foro Penal, since the release process began, more than 430 political prisoners have been freed, but approximately 640 people remain in prison.
Earlier, on Thursday, February 12, thousands of people participated in the first major opposition demonstration held since Maduro was ousted from power, demanding the release of all prisoners of conscience.
