Feb 20 • 00:45 UTC 🇫🇮 Finland Yle Uutiset

Venezuelan Parliament Approves Law for the Release of Political Prisoners

The Venezuelan parliament has approved a law that could lead to the release of hundreds of political prisoners.

On Thursday, the Venezuelan parliament passed a law that allows for the potential release of hundreds of political prisoners, marking a significant political development in the country. The proposal for a general amnesty for those imprisoned on political grounds was earlier announced by the acting president Delcy Rodríguez. While the law has yet to receive final approval from Rodríguez, its passage reflects ongoing efforts to address human rights concerns in Venezuela, particularly from opposition parties and human rights organizations.

Human rights groups and opposition leaders have long pushed for such legislation, viewing it as a crucial step towards improving the situation for political detainees. However, there are concerns about the law's implementation and its provisions, as it does not specify the crimes that would qualify individuals for amnesty. Additionally, the legislation does not restore property rights to those released, nor does it rescind political bans or lift media restrictions imposed on them, raising questions about the law's efficacy in achieving true political reform and justice.

This legislative development comes amid ongoing attempts by Rodríguez to normalize relations with the United States, especially following the controversial seizure of power by Nicolás Maduro earlier this year. As the political situation in Venezuela remains tense and contentious, the implications of this law could play a pivotal role in shaping future dialogues surrounding human rights and political freedoms within the country.

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