Venezuela releases well-known activist, but criticism of the government continues

The release of Venezuelan human rights activist Javier Tarazona has sparked cautious hope among the families of political prisoners in the country. Tarazona, who was detained in 2021 on charges of terrorism and conspiracy, was released after more than four years in prison.

According to the organization Foro Penal, this is part of a broader process in which more than 300 political prisoners have been released since the beginning of January. The Venezuelan government claims that the number is even higher, but does not provide exact figures or a list of names.

The families of those detained criticize the slow progress and lack of transparency, pointing out that more than 700 people considered political prisoners remain behind bars. The government has also announced plans for an amnesty law and the closure of the notorious Helicoide detention center.

However, activists warn that without the withdrawal of charges and convictions, this is only a partial solution that does not guarantee true justice.

(reuters, mja)