The Venezuelan government has taken a significant step towards reform by releasing 379 political prisoners, which occurred just one day after the approval of a landmark amnesty law. This move is part of a broader effort by the regime following the controversial removal of former President Nicolás Maduro. Delcy Rodríguez, the interim leader, highlighted that this law is intended to pave the way for a 'more democratic, just, and free Venezuela' in a speech broadcast on state television.

Jorge Arreaza, who heads the legislative commission that crafted the amnesty law, confirmed that these prisoners are expected to be released by the morning of the following day. This release follows previous conditional freedoms granted to 448 political opponents after Maduro's capture by U.S. forces earlier in January. However, it is reported by the NGO Foro Penal that nearly 650 political prisoners remained incarcerated, bringing into question the effectiveness and sincerity of the amnesty legislation.

Experts are skeptical about the real impact of the amnesty law, as it raises concerns regarding the future of political prisoners still under detention. While the government positions this move as progress, the critical evaluation by legal analysts emphasizes the need for comprehensive human rights reforms in Venezuela, stressing that without addressing the root causes of political repression, the long-term outlook for democracy in the country remains uncertain.