Venezuela’s National Assembly Approves Amnesty Law for Political Prisoners
The new law could free hundreds of jailed government critics while excluding those accused of armed actions or foreign intervention
- Venezuela’s National Assembly unanimously approved a law granting amnesty for politically motivated offences dating back to 1999
- Individuals accused of armed actions or seeking foreign intervention
- Families of detainees see potential relief, but critics warn the law could be applied selectively
Venezuela’s National Assembly has unanimously approved a long‑awaited amnesty law that could pave the way for the release of hundreds of political prisoners held for opposing the government, marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.
The legislation, passed on Thursday and signed into law by acting President Delcy Rodríguez, grants amnesty for politically motivated offences dating back decades, covering events from the late 1990s through recent unrest.
The law excludes individuals prosecuted or convicted for promoting armed actions against the state or its sovereignty — a clause that could affect some prominent opposition figures, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate María Corina Machado, whom the ruling party accuses of seeking foreign intervention.
Backed by pressure from Washington, the measure has raised hopes among families of detainees that loved ones may soon return home, though critics argue its exclusions and requirements could limit its impact and be applied selectively.
For many Venezuelans awaiting justice, the law represents a fragile step toward reconciliation, even as human rights groups and opposition supporters call for broader, unconditional relief.
