Venezuelan Human Rights Group Confirms Release of Political Prisoners Amid U.S. Pressure
A leading human rights organization in Venezuela has reported the release of at least 80 political prisoners, a development attributed to increasing pressure from the United States. Alfredo Romero, head of Foro Penal, announced that the group is currently in the process of verifying the identities of those freed from various prisons across the country.
This recent release marks the latest significant move following the U.S. government’s seizure of President Nicolás Maduro during a raid earlier this month. Maduro now faces drug-trafficking charges in New York. Such developments are pivotal as they highlight the ongoing struggle for human rights and political freedom within Venezuela’s turbulent political landscape.
Key Developments
- Foro Penal is verifying the identities of prisoners released, with expectations of more releases soon.
- Venezuelan Interim President Delcy Rodriguez claimed over 600 prisoners were freed, but Foro Penal disputes this figure.
- Notable among the released is Kennedy Tejeda, a Foro Penal colleague imprisoned since August 2024.
- Many released prisoners may face legal uncertainties, as charges against them remain unresolved.
- Rodriguez announced a forthcoming call with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to verify the releases.
Full Report
Verification Process Underway
Alfredo Romero indicated that Foro Penal is working diligently to confirm the identities of the recently released individuals. Social media posts from the organization provide updates, indicating that the number of releases may exceed 80 as the verification process continues.
Government Statements vs. NGO Reports
On Friday, Rodriguez stated that more than 600 prisoners had been released. However, Foro Penal countered this claim, insisting that the number has been exaggerated. The organization maintains that while there have been some releases, many individuals are still facing unresolved legal charges, leading to a state of legal limbo. Released prisoners have reportedly been barred from public speech.
Details of Some Released Individuals
Among those confirmed released are multiple domestic opposition figures and at least five Spanish nationals. Kennedy Tejeda’s release, highlighted by Romero, sheds light on the ongoing plight of human rights activists within the country.
International Oversight and Reactions
As part of efforts to ensure transparency, Rodriguez is scheduled for a call with Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, to ask for the verification of the released prisoners’ lists. This marks a recognized need for international oversight given the long-standing accusations against the Venezuelan government concerning the detainment of political adversaries.
Context & Previous Events
Prior to this weekend, Foro Penal confirmed the release of 156 political prisoners since January 8. The status of many prisoners has sparked outrage among human rights advocates, particularly following the 2024 presidential election, which was marred by allegations of vote manipulation and widespread protests against Maduro’s administration.
