Dozens of relatives of Venezuelan political prisoners protest in front of El Helicoide: 'Close the torture centers now'
Relatives of Venezuelan political prisoners and human rights activists protested in Caracas, calling for the closure of torture centers and the release of prisoners.
On a recent Saturday, numerous relatives of Venezuelan political prisoners, alongside human rights activists, gathered for a protest near El Helicoide, a notorious prison in Caracas, known for housing political detainees. The protest was sparked by a call from Cardinal Baltazar Porras, urging families and supporters to demand justice for those wrongfully imprisoned. The demonstration coincided with a commemorative mass, highlighting the enduring struggle for human rights and the plight of political prisoners in Venezuela.
During the protest, participants chanted slogans such as "we are not afraid" and "freedom!" while carrying portraits of both well-known and lesser-known prisoners. They paid homage with a moment of silence and sang the national anthem, creating a solemn atmosphere that underscored their determination. The demonstrators emphasized that the individuals they represent are innocent and called for immediate action to close all centers of torture associated with the regime.
The event reflects the growing frustration among Venezuelan citizens regarding the government's treatment of political prisoners and human rights violations. As calls for accountability and reform amplify, the protest illustrates a significant moment of solidarity among families advocating for their loved ones' freedom and the urgent need for international attention to the crisis in Venezuela. Cardinal Porras’s involvement indicates that even within the religious community, there is an active resistance against the government’s oppressive tactics, and these gatherings aim to maintain pressure for change.