Venezuela Moves Ahead With Amnesty Bill That Could Free Political Prisoners

Venezuela’s National Assembly on Thursday advanced an amnesty bill proposed by acting President Delcy Rodríguez that could pave.

The way for the release of hundreds of political prisoners, including opposition leaders, journalists and human rights activists detained on politically motivated charges.

The proposed legislation, a long-standing demand of the opposition and international human rights groups backed by the United States, has been met with cautious optimism. However, its contents have not been made public, prompting calls for transparency and safeguards to ensure no detainees are arbitrarily excluded.

The bill was introduced weeks after the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro by US forces and must still undergo a second parliamentary debate before being approved and signed into law by Rodríguez.

Announcing the initiative last month, Rodríguez said the ruling party-controlled legislature would act with urgency, describing the measure as a step toward national reconciliation.

“May this law serve to heal the wounds left by political confrontation fueled by violence and extremism,” she said during a pre-recorded address to senior government officials and military leaders. “May it help redirect justice and coexistence among Venezuelans.”

Human rights organisations have welcomed the move in principle but warned that the lack of clarity raises concerns about eligibility criteria and victims’ rights. PROVEA, a leading Venezuelan human rights group, said the bill must be published immediately given its potential impact on society and the rule of law.

According to preliminary reports, the amnesty would apply to politically related cases dating back to the presidency of Hugo Chávez in 1999 through the current year, while excluding individuals convicted of murder, drug trafficking and serious human rights violations.

Rights advocates say the final scope and implementation of the law will determine whether it leads to meaningful relief for political detainees or falls short of expectations.