Venezuelans Demand Swift Implementation of Newly Passed Law

VENEZUELA – Relatives of Venezuelans detained for political reasons urged authorities on Thursday (February 19) to swiftly implement a newly approved amnesty law, saying they would remain camped outside a Caracas detention center until their loved ones are freed.

Families gathered at Zona 7 prison, held hands, watched the National Assembly session on cellphones, and applauded as the vote was passed.

“We will stay here until the last one is released,” said Yessy Orozco, a relative of a detainee.

Another relative, Petra Vera, said families were waiting for the amnesty to be officially published in Venezuela’s gazette and for releases to begin.

Venezuela’s ruling party-controlled legislature approved the limited amnesty bill after a second debate on Thursday, though human rights organizations say it falls short of offering relief for hundreds of political prisoners.

The government has long denied holding political prisoners, saying those jailed have committed crimes.

The approved measure provides amnesty for involvement in political protests and “violent actions” dating back to events including a brief 2002 coup and selected periods of demonstrations or elections in 2004, 2007, 2009, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2019, 2023, 2024 and 2025, while excluding people convicted of “military rebellion” related to events in 2019.