Feb 15 • 16:00 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

Venezuela must avoid an amnesty without memory and a forgiveness without justice

The article discusses the need for Venezuela to establish justice and accountability in the face of political repression rather than merely granting amnesty.

The article emphasizes the critical need for Venezuela to pursue a reconciliatory approach that prioritizes memory and justice over simple amnesty. It argues that the granting of amnesty, without addressing the underlying injustices and the historical context of political repression, could lead to further division rather than healing. The author highlights the importance of ensuring that victims' stories are acknowledged and that any reconciliation efforts include genuine accountability for past crimes.

An example is presented through the story of Kennedy Tejeda, who sought information about two young individuals from his community arrested for protesting against electoral fraud. Tejeda’s experience illustrates the grim reality many face in Venezuela, where expressing dissent can lead to severe repercussions. The article points out that such personal narratives are critical in understanding the broader implications of political abuses and the necessity of robust justice mechanisms in any future reconciliation processes.

The author concludes by asserting that a mere amnesia, or an avoidance of confronting past wrongs, will not suffice for real national healing. For true reconciliation, any future amnesty must be accompanied by authentic memory work that recognizes victims' rights, addresses injustices, and seeks to prevent future abuses. This perspective posits that without these fundamental steps, the cycle of violence and repression in Venezuela will likely continue, undermining prospects for lasting peace.

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