The National Assembly of Venezuela unanimously approves the amnesty law
The National Assembly of Venezuela has unanimously approved an amnesty law that could release hundreds of political prisoners and protect those in exile or hiding from legal persecution.
On Thursday, the National Assembly of Venezuela passed an amnesty law unanimously after two weeks of consultations among various political sectors and civil society. This law aims to release hundreds of political prisoners and provide immunity from legal actions for individuals in exile or those hiding due to political persecution. The approval of the law is seen as a significant step towards reconciliation in a country marked by political strife.
Jorge Rodríguez, President of the Assembly and brother of the current President, celebrated the passage of the law, expressing hopes that this cooperative effort among deputies marks a new political era for Venezuela. The law reflects a negotiation process where many opposition members contributed to its drafting, ensuring broader legal protections and a commitment to addressing political issues.
However, it is important to note that the new law excludes nearly two hundred imprisoned military personnel from the amnesty provisions, highlighting ongoing divisions in how the government handles different sectors of society. As Venezuela continues to grapple with its political crisis, the implications of this law could reshape the landscape for political discourse and civil liberties, potentially leading to significant changes in the country's governance and societal dynamics.