Venezuela passes amnesty law for political prisoners

The Venezuelan parliament, controlled by the ruling party, has passed a limited amnesty law that, according to the country's leadership, is intended to pave the way for reconciliation. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez signed it shortly after the vote, calling it the beginning of a process of forgiveness.

The law covers protests and political events from 2002 to 2025, but excludes several categories of defendants, including those prosecuted for military rebellion or "armed actions."

Human rights organizations warn that the measure is too narrow and may bypass hundreds of people they consider political prisoners. Also controversial is the condition of personal presence in the country and the requirement that applicants cease activities deemed criminal.

The opposition supported the law as "imperfect" but called on the government to comply with it strictly.

Tension in the streets continues, with prisoners' families protesting and some relatives going on hunger strike. Among those released is opposition politician Juan Pablo Guanipa, whose house arrest has been lifted.

(reuters, pir)